Revelations about the crash of Yevgeny Prigozhin's aircraft
A complex investigation to unravel the mysteries of the accident
Professionals in charge of air investigations frequently draw on specialist knowledge, such as aircraft manufacture, atmospheric circumstances and analysis of explosion accident scenarios. International expertise in air accidents, revealed by Euronews, underlines the usual steps required to analyze such an event. Evgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, is presumed to have died in the incident near Moscow.
Evidence of a possible criminal origin
Ismo Aaltonen, former Head of Investigation for Finnish Aviation Security, argues that, given the individuals involved, the hypothesis of foul play is plausible. After analyzing the images of the event, he suggests that the aircraft may have disintegrated in mid-air.
The first steps in technical investigation
The initial investigation requires a methodical and detailed approach, involving the collection of debris, examination of weather conditions, review of aircraft history, pilot proficiency and maintenance records. Aaltonen points out that all data is scrutinized in the hangar, using checklists to ensure the completeness of the process.
The crucial role of international employees
The involvement of a team of specialists is essential, and may include experts appointed by the authorities of the aircraft manufacturer's country, in this case Brazil. These representatives are likely to join the investigation in Russia with the assistance of the manufacturer's advisors. However, Aaltonen points out that the involvement of these experts could be hampered by the current context in Russia.
The challenge of black box data analysis
Moreover, the interpretation of flight recorder data can be complicated if they come from American producers, in view of trade tensions and restrictions with Russia.
The rarity of mechanical breakdowns
Aaltonen asserts that technical failures are unusual and should be quickly ruled out. He indicates that the priority would be to find evidence of explosives or missile impacts, easily discernible on certain parts of the wreck.
The veil of political uncertainty hanging over the survey
Keir Giles, senior expert with Chatham House's Russia and Eurasia program, predicts that the true circumstances of this tragedy will probably remain unknown, as the political dimension of the case will prevent an open and credible investigation.
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