Overview
The video critically analyzes Pilot Debrief’s assumptions about the Air India 171 crash, focusing on the plausibility of pilot error—specifically, whether the wrong engine was inadvertently shut down. The presenter, an experienced jet pilot, addresses key technical points and responses to community comments, while emphasizing the unique procedures and safeguards of jet operations.
Assessment of Pilot Debrief's Analysis
- Pilot Debrief’s commentary on the lack of visual confirmation of ram air turbine deployment is accurate; audio evidence is stronger.
- A cascade of failures is more likely than a single catastrophic failure in a modern jet aircraft.
- The suggestion that accidental shutdown of the functional engine occurred is highly improbable for jets.
- Advanced compensation systems in modern jets (like the Boeing 787) limit yaw after an engine failure, reducing visible signs in video.
Accident Analysis and Engine Shutdown Discussion
- Dual engine failures in jets are extremely rare; jet engines fail much less often than propeller engines.
- Procedures in jets dictate maintaining aircraft control following an engine failure, with no immediate requirement to shut down the failed engine.
- Shutdown checklists in jets occur at a safe altitude and after other configurations, not in haste after failure.
- The verification process in jet SOPs ensures the correct engine is identified before any shutdown actions are taken.
Community and Comment Responses
- Flap or gear misconfiguration alone is very unlikely to have caused the crash.
- The installation of PTZ cameras at runways is recommended to improve accident investigation.
- The “fly the plane first” principle is stressed as the top priority in emergencies.
Comparison: Propeller vs. Jet Multiengine Procedures
- Propeller aircraft require rapid feathering of failed engine to reduce drag, which can lead to rushed shutdowns.
- No feathering exists in jet engines; jet pilots have more time and structured process to ensure correct engine shutdown.
- Training and checklists in jets focus on deliberate verification and sequencing to avoid critical mistakes.
Opinions and Conclusions
- The idea that the pilots mistakenly shut down the last working engine is considered highly unlikely due to procedural safeguards in jet operations.
- The presenter expresses respect for Pilot Debrief while highlighting areas of disagreement based on personal jet experience.
- Emphasizes the need for more factual data before making conclusive statements about the accident’s cause.
Recommendations / Advice
- Airports should consider adding PTZ cameras for better accident documentation.
- Maintain adherence to structured emergency checklists and always prioritize aircraft control in failures.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Awaiting official investigation data to clarify the actual cause and sequence of events in the Air India 171 crash.