Fmr. FAA acting administrator on Air India jet crash investigation

Key Concepts:

• Performance analysis during takeoff
• Aircraft configuration (flaps, slats, landing gear)
• Flight data recorder (FDR) information
• Accident investigation process
• Probable cause determination

Performance Analysis and Expected Procedures:

The speaker emphasizes the importance of analyzing the aircraft's performance during takeoff. The expected sequence of events after a successful takeoff includes:

• Positive Rate of Climb: Once the aircraft achieves a positive rate of climb, the pilot flying typically calls for "positive rate, flaps up."
• Climb Out and Clean Up: The aircraft then begins to climb out, and the pilot starts to "clean up" the airplane. This involves retracting the flaps and slats.

Aircraft Configuration and Key Observations:

The speaker highlights the significance of the aircraft's configuration during the incident. A key observation from the video is:

• Landing Gear Position: The landing gear is still in the extended (down) position.

This observation is crucial because it deviates from the expected configuration during the climb-out phase.

Investigation Focus Areas:

The speaker outlines the key areas that investigators will focus on:

• Performance: A detailed analysis of the aircraft's performance during takeoff and initial climb.
• Configuration: A thorough examination of the aircraft's configuration, specifically the position of the flaps, slats, and landing gear.
• Identifying Anomalies: Determining if there were any anomalies or deviations from the expected procedures or configurations.

Role of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR):

The flight data recorder (FDR) is a critical tool in the investigation. It provides valuable information, including:

• Flight Control Positions: The positions of the flight controls (e.g., ailerons, elevators, rudder).
• Landing Gear Position: Confirmation of the landing gear position, which can be cross-referenced with visual evidence.

Data Integration and Probable Cause:

The speaker explains that investigators will gather all available information, including:

• FDR Data: Data from the flight data recorder.
• Visual Evidence: Observations from videos and photographs.
• Other Relevant Data: Any other relevant data, such as maintenance records or pilot interviews.

By integrating this information, investigators aim to:

• Develop a Complete Picture: Create a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the incident.
• Determine Probable Cause: Identify the most likely cause of the incident "fairly quickly."

Notable Quotes:

• "You would expect uh airplane is prepared for takeoff it lifts off typically what happens is that once you've got a positive rate of climb the pilot flying will call for uh positive rate flaps up."
• "...they will look very closely at performance they'll look very closely at configuration and to see was there anything that's a miss..."

Technical Terms:

• Positive Rate of Climb: The aircraft is ascending at a sufficient rate.
• Flaps: Hinged surfaces on the trailing edge of the wings used to increase lift and drag.
• Slats: Aerodynamic surfaces on the leading edge of the wings used to improve lift at low speeds.
• Landing Gear: The wheels and supporting structure used for takeoff and landing.
• Flight Data Recorder (FDR): An electronic recording device placed in an aircraft for the purpose of facilitating the investigation of aviation accidents and incidents.
• Configuration: The arrangement of the aircraft's components, such as flaps, slats, and landing gear.

Logical Connections:

The speaker logically connects the expected takeoff procedures with the observed configuration of the aircraft. The deviation from the expected configuration (landing gear down) raises questions about the aircraft's performance and potential contributing factors to the incident. The FDR data is presented as a crucial source of information to validate observations and provide a more complete picture.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The speaker emphasizes the importance of analyzing the aircraft's performance and configuration during takeoff to determine the probable cause of the incident. The extended landing gear position is a key observation that warrants further investigation. The FDR data will play a crucial role in providing objective information about the flight controls and landing gear position, enabling investigators to develop a comprehensive understanding of the events and identify the probable cause.