For the first time ever, India will proudly host the Asia-Pacific region’s aircraft accident investigators’ meeting in its capital city, New Delhi. This significant four-day summit, scheduled from October 28 to 31, 2025, is expected to draw around 90 leading aircraft accident investigators from various Asia-Pacific nations.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), operating under India’s Civil Aviation Ministry, is organizing this pivotal event. The Asia-Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) convenes annually, bringing together representatives from International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) member states in the region, alongside delegates from other international organizations.
A highlight of the event will be its inauguration by Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu on October 28. Discussions throughout the meeting will delve into critical aspects of aircraft accident investigations, including refined processes and reporting methodologies.
These gatherings are instrumental in fostering the exchange of invaluable expertise, experiences, and information among accident investigation authorities. Their collective goal is to strengthen cooperation and enhance the capabilities for conducting thorough accident investigations across the Asia-Pacific region.
The initial two days, October 28 and 29, will feature a dedicated workshop. This session will cover a range of topics pertinent to aircraft accident investigations, with active participation from AAIB and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) officials, as well as international attendees.
Following the workshop, representatives from ICAO member states in the Asia Pacific region will engage in detailed discussions with AAIB officials on October 30 and 31.
The AAIB plays a crucial role in classifying safety incidents within Indian airspace, identifying them as accidents or serious incidents. It then undertakes comprehensive investigations to pinpoint causes and propose vital safety improvements. Currently, the AAIB is actively involved in about 25 aircraft accident investigations, including the tragic Air India plane crash on June 12 that resulted in 260 fatalities.