Ref.: Ahmedabad Air India Crash: US FAA finds no mechanical issue with Boeing 787 fuel switches [Link]
The Trump administration is forcing countries to buy Boeing planes as part of trade deals. The AI-171 crash came at a sensitive time for negotiations not just with India, but also Japan and Indonesia. Washington sees no problem in dumping substandard products on the rest of the world so long as this earns dollars and employs workers. It is particularly important given the massive deficit the US is running.
Despite several investigations showing that Boeing has flouted safety norms, including on jets delivered to India, there is no public accountability. Whistleblowers have mysteriously died. Workers are known to consume drugs on the factory floor. Faulty electrical equipment has been installed despite repeated warnings. To think this company and its state patron will do anything but save their skin and shift blame, will be juvenile.
The investigation into the air crash has taken a distinct political and geopolitical hue. The truth is held hostage to bigger power games. Boeing's crisis of credibility will only give COMAC room to grow in the long run. If India was to plan strategically for the future, it would start a civil jet development program, perhaps partnering with the Russians. Within 15 years, India could have its own narrow bodied jet for domestic operations.
Surya Kanegaonkar