Pilot Explains: A New Detail in the Air India 787 Crash Everyone Missed

Summary

In this video, Gary, an experienced commercial pilot, delves into the Air India Flight 171 crash, analyzing critical elements like the flaps' deployment, a potential double engine failure, and the significance of the ram air turbine (RAT). He compares his findings with other experts, including Captain Steve, and offers his own theory that both engines likely flamed out, leading to the plane's power loss and ultimately, the crash. Gary explores several theories, including contaminated fuel and pilot error, but remains uncertain about the exact cause. He emphasizes the need for further investigation to reach a definitive conclusion.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gary, an experienced commercial pilot, provides an in-depth analysis of an Air India flight crash, highlighting key technical issues and possible causes of the incident.
• 😀 Initial belief that the flaps were retracted during takeoff was corrected after comparing with other 787 takeoff videos, suggesting the flaps were deployed.
• 😀 Gary agrees with Captain Steve's assessment that the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) was deployed, signaling a loss of engine power after takeoff.
• 😀 Gary emphasizes that the quietness in the crash audio indicates a complete loss of engine thrust, further suggesting the engines had failed.
• 😀 The possibility of a dual engine failure is explored, with Gary speculating that contaminated fuel or mechanical failure could explain the simultaneous engine loss.
• 😀 Gary dismisses pilot error as a probable cause, suggesting the incident was more likely due to mechanical malfunction or fuel-related issues.
• 😀 The forward tilt of the main landing gear indicates that it was correctly raised, but a subsequent hydraulic failure caused it to drop back down.
• 😀 The theory of dual engine failure is supported by the RAT deployment, the gear's behavior, and the Mayday call made by the crew during the emergency.
• 😀 Gary discusses the possibility of the power being intentionally reduced, either by pulling the fuel cut-off switches or turning off auto throttle, which might have contributed to the loss of engine power.
• 😀 While acknowledging the improbability of both engines failing simultaneously, Gary suggests that contaminated fuel or some form of malfunction could have caused the failure, but definitive conclusions will require more data.
• 😀 Gary plans an interview with Captain Steve to further discuss their differing theories and to dive deeper into the technical aspects of the crash investigation.

Q & A

What led to the speaker changing their mind about the flaps during takeoff?

The speaker initially believed the flaps were retracted during takeoff but changed their mind after comparing footage from other 787 takeoffs. They concluded that the flaps were deployed, with evidence suggesting at least the slats were extended and the flaps were down, possibly at a flaps 5 setting.

What role does the ram air turbine (RAT) play in the analysis of the crash?

The deployment of the RAT indicates a loss of engine power. The speaker supports Captain Steve's observation that the RAT was deployed, but adds that the quietness in the audio suggests that the aircraft lost power in all engines, making the RAT the only source of power available.

Why does the speaker believe the aircraft experienced a double engine failure?

The speaker believes a double engine failure is the most plausible explanation, citing the Mayday call, the deployment of the RAT, and the complete lack of engine noise. They also consider the possibility of fuel contamination or mechanical failure as potential causes.

How does the speaker disagree with Captain Steve's theory about pilot error during takeoff?

Captain Steve suggested the first officer might have mistakenly raised the flaps instead of the landing gear, but the speaker disagrees, arguing that the gear was correctly selected up. The tilt of the gear during takeoff indicates the gear was operated properly, not the flaps.

What is the significance of the gear tilting forward during takeoff?

The gear tilting forward is an indication that it was selected up during takeoff. This behavior is crucial because it confirms that the landing gear was operated correctly, even though the hydraulic system failed later due to the engine flameout, causing the gear to drop back down.

What does the speaker suggest could have caused the double engine failure?

The speaker speculates that the double engine failure could have been caused by contaminated fuel, but also considers other possibilities, including mechanical malfunctions or pilot actions like turning off the auto throttle or engaging the fuel cutoff switches.

Why does the speaker believe the aircraft could have lost electrical power?

The speaker suggests that the loss of electrical power might have been a key factor in the crash, explaining that the aircraft experienced a total loss of thrust shortly after takeoff. The lack of engine noise and the deployment of the RAT support this theory.

What was the speaker's reaction to Captain Steve's analysis of the incident?

The speaker generally agrees with Captain Steve's analysis but offers a different perspective on the event. They plan to discuss their theories with Captain Steve and clarify points where their opinions differ, particularly regarding the gear and the engine failure.

What does the speaker imply about the aircraft's ability to recover from a flap or gear issue?

The speaker believes that even if the flaps or gear were not in the optimal position, the 787 should have been able to recover and escape the situation if it had sufficient engine power. The fact that the aircraft lost lift and failed to regain altitude suggests more serious issues, such as a complete engine failure.

What is the speaker's final conclusion about the cause of the crash?

The speaker concludes that the crash was most likely caused by a dual engine failure, possibly due to contaminated fuel or a mechanical failure. They also believe that the loss of power was exacerbated by the loss of electrical systems, which led to the plane descending despite having the gear down.