The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has sharply criticized The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and Reuters for what it calls “distorted and irresponsible” reporting on the preliminary findings of the AI-171 crash investigation. FIP President Captain C.S. Randhawa accused the media outlets of misrepresenting the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) report and prematurely casting blame on Indian pilots.
The June crash of Air India Flight AI-171 claimed the lives of over 250 people and has drawn intense global media attention. However, Randhawa argued that the coverage by WSJ and Reuters goes beyond the facts presented in the AAIB's preliminary report. “Are they the investigative body?” he questioned, suggesting that the outlets had drawn conclusions not supported by official findings.
In response, the FIP has initiated legal action, issuing formal notices to both media organizations. The federation is demanding a public explanation and a press statement correcting what it describes as inaccurate and speculative reporting. “We have asked for a statement to the press, giving an explanation of their reportage of the AAIB preliminary reports,” Randhawa said, warning of further legal steps if their concerns are not addressed.
The FIP's reaction comes amid growing criticism of Western media coverage, which some in India believe has unfairly singled out pilot error as the cause of the crash—well before the investigation is complete. Randhawa condemned such speculation as damaging and irresponsible, saying it undermines the integrity of the investigative process.
He also welcomed a recent statement by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is part of the AAIB’s multi-agency investigation team. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy called on the public and media to avoid speculation and respect the thorough, methodical nature of aviation accident investigations. She emphasized that complex inquiries like this require time, collaboration, and factual accuracy.
Captain Randhawa expressed hope that the NTSB’s intervention would help curb misinformation and reinforce public trust in the official inquiry. “Let the investigation run its course,” he urged, “and let truth—not headlines—determine the outcome.”