FIP Sends Legal Notice to WSJ, Reuters Over 'Pilot Error' Claims in Ahmedabad Plane Crash Reports

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has taken legal action against international news agencies Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and Reuters, demanding an official apology and correction over their coverage of the June 12 Ahmedabad plane crash.

According to FIP, both agencies published stories incorrectly attributing the cause of the crash to pilot error, even though the initial investigation report released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) does not mention pilot fault.

What the Reports Said

WSJ and Reuters published articles implying that the crash resulted from the pilot intentionally turning off the fuel control switches, citing unnamed sources allegedly linked to U.S. authorities. They claimed that cockpit recordings captured a conversation between the pilots regarding the fuel system, suggesting deliberate action.

However, the AAIB report has not concluded who turned off the switches, nor does it assign blame to either pilot.

FIP’s Response

FIP President Captain CS Randhawa confirmed that legal notices have been served to both news outlets. He stated:

“Nowhere in the official report does it say the fuel switch was turned off due to pilot error. These agencies have not read the report properly. We demand a full public apology and correction.”

Several other pilot associations have also condemned the speculative and misleading reporting, expressing concern about the impact such narratives can have on public perception and the professional reputation of pilots.

What’s Next?

The FIP has warned that if the agencies fail to issue a correction and apology, it is prepared to pursue further legal action. The matter has stirred strong emotions within India’s aviation community, which views the reporting as both irresponsible and damaging.