On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, flying from Ahmedabad to London, tragically crashed just minutes after takeoff. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic control shortly after leaving the airport, leading to a devastating accident in a nearby residential area.
What Exactly Is a Black Box?
Despite the name, the “black box” isn’t black — it’s bright orange to make it easier to find after an accident. This device is actually two recorders combined:
Flight Data Recorder (FDR): This captures important technical details like the plane’s speed, altitude, and engine performance during the flight.
Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): This records everything said in the cockpit, including pilot conversations and background noises.
Both devices are built extremely tough so they can survive crashes, fires, and other harsh conditions. Their main job is to save crucial flight information that investigators use to figure out what went wrong.
How Do Experts Analyze Black Box Data?
After a crash, investigators recover the black box from the wreckage and take it to a special lab. In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) leads the investigation. They often work with international experts and airplane manufacturers to interpret the data.
First, they extract the information stored in the Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder. Then, the data is decoded to reveal detailed information about the plane’s final moments. Finally, investigators compare this data with radar and air traffic control records to piece together a full picture of the flight’s last minutes.
This thorough analysis helps experts understand what caused the crash and guides recommendations to improve aviation safety in the future.
Why Is the Black Box Important in the Gujarat Crash?
This crash is especially significant because it involves a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a model known for its strong safety record. The plane reached about 625 feet altitude before communication was lost. The black box will play a vital role in uncovering what happened during those critical moments.
The DGCA is leading the investigation, with help from international aviation experts. The findings from the black box data will be crucial in identifying the cause of the accident and helping prevent similar tragedies going forward.
