Kozhikode, June 14: Newly released audio recordings have shed light on the final, desperate moments of the Air India Express flight that crash-landed at Kozhikode International Airport in 2020. The pilot’s distress call to air traffic control, moments before the aircraft overshot the runway, provides a haunting glimpse into the critical decisions taken just before the fatal incident.
The audio, reportedly sourced from the cockpit voice recorder and ATC communication logs, captures Captain Deepak Vasant Sathe attempting to communicate the loss of control and the dangerous situation as the aircraft approached the tabletop runway during heavy rainfall and poor visibility.
The Crash Incident
The Air India Express flight IX 1344 was part of the Vande Bharat Mission and was carrying 190 passengers from Dubai to Kozhikode. On August 7, 2020, the Boeing 737 aircraft attempted to land at the tabletop airport amid challenging weather conditions. It skidded off the runway, broke into two upon impact, and resulted in the deaths of 21 people, including both pilots, and injuries to many others.
Details from the Audio
According to officials familiar with the content, the captain is heard making an urgent distress call to air traffic control, alerting them to unstable approach conditions and requesting support. The tone in the recording reportedly grows more tense as the aircraft nears touchdown.
Investigators believe this communication confirms that the crew was fully aware of the deteriorating conditions but had limited options to avert disaster. The flight had already attempted one go-around before the final landing attempt that ended in tragedy.
Aviation Experts React
The audio release has prompted aviation safety experts to renew their calls for better infrastructure at challenging airports, such as Kozhikode, and more rigorous enforcement of safety protocols, especially during the monsoon season.
Captain G. Ramaswamy, a retired airline pilot, commented:
“This audio is a powerful reminder of how crucial decision-making and weather conditions are during final approaches. These incidents underline the importance of pilot training for high-stress, high-risk scenarios.”
Investigation and Findings So Far
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) had earlier attributed the crash to a combination of factors including excessive landing speed, tailwind, poor visibility, and possible human error. However, the release of the audio has added another dimension, possibly highlighting system-level issues related to communication and operational pressure.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has confirmed it is reviewing the new material and may reopen certain aspects of the investigation if necessary.
Family Members Demand Accountability
Families of the deceased have called for renewed investigations and stronger aviation safety reforms. Several have expressed disappointment over the lack of accountability and delay in implementing preventive measures, especially at high-risk airports.
Conclusion
The emergence of the distress call adds urgency to ongoing efforts to enhance aviation safety in India. As investigators and aviation bodies analyze the newly surfaced audio, the focus remains on learning from the tragedy to prevent future accidents and ensure passenger safety.
