India has reportedly denied entry to a United Nations aviation investigator who sought to observe the ongoing probe into the recent Air India Boeing 787 crash, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The UN official, affiliated with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), had requested access as an independent observer to ensure transparency and alignment with global investigative norms. However, Indian authorities declined the request, stating that the investigation falls under the jurisdiction of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and is being conducted in accordance with India's national protocols and international obligations.
Officials emphasized that the AAIB remains fully capable of handling the investigation and that external observers were not deemed necessary at this stage. The Indian government also clarified that no decision has been made to send the aircraft's black boxes abroad for analysis; such a step would only be considered based on technical requirements and after expert assessment.
The decision has sparked debate among aviation experts, with some raising concerns over transparency, while others defend India’s right to manage the probe independently, citing sovereignty and technical competence.
