Air Crash Investigation, also known as accident investigation, is the process of determining the circumstances and causes of an aircraft accident. This process involves various specialized professionals such as pilots, engineers, forensic experts, and safety personnel. The goal of these investigations is to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future by identifying the causes and contributing factors of the accident. The findings are used to improve flight safety regulations and aircraft design. Investigations are usually led by the aviation authorities of the country where the accident occurred, but international organisations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) may also be involved.

Here are short notes on the various topics relevant to air crash investigation:

• Understanding ILS: The Instrument Landing System (ILS) provides precision guidance to aircraft for landing, especially in low visibility conditions. It helps in aligning the aircraft laterally and vertically to the runway.
• Missed Approaches: A missed approach is a procedure that pilots follow if they cannot land the aircraft safely. It involves climbing to a certain altitude and holding until further instructions from air traffic control (ATC).
• Holding Patterns: Holding patterns are predefined flight paths that planes follow when they need to delay their landing. This is often used to manage traffic congestion at busy airports.
• Weather Conditions: Weather can significantly impact flight safety, affecting visibility, turbulence, and wind patterns. Pilots rely on weather forecasts and real-time data to make informed decisions.
• Visibility: Low visibility conditions, such as fog, rain, or snow, can make landings challenging. Pilots use instruments like ILS to navigate safely in such conditions.
• Types of Planes (737 vs. A320 vs. MD planes): The Boeing 737, Airbus A320, and McDonnell Douglas planes have different designs, performance characteristics, and uses. Each type has its advantages and particularities.
• ATC: Air Traffic Control (ATC) is responsible for managing the safe and orderly flow of aircraft in the airspace and on the ground. They provide instructions to pilots for takeoff, landing, and en-route navigation.
• Wind Shear: Wind shear refers to sudden changes in wind speed or direction over a short distance. It can be dangerous during takeoff and landing, requiring pilots to be vigilant.
• Stalls: A stall occurs when the aircraft's wings lose lift due to a high angle of attack. Pilots are trained to recover from stalls by reducing the angle of attack and increasing airspeed.
• Engines (the mechanics of it after plane crash incidents): After a crash, investigators examine the engines to understand their performance and identify any mechanical failures that may have contributed to the incident.
• Hardovers: A hardover is an uncommanded and often abrupt movement of control surfaces, which can cause the aircraft to become uncontrollable.
• Explosions: Explosions can result from fuel tank ignition, onboard devices, or external attacks. Investigators look for evidence of explosives and damage patterns.
• Decompression: Decompression refers to a loss of cabin pressure, which can be rapid (explosive) or gradual. It is a serious emergency requiring immediate descent to a safe altitude.
• Fires: Onboard fires can be caused by electrical faults, engine failures, or external sources. Firefighting protocols and equipment are crucial for managing such incidents.
• Ditching a Plane: Ditching is the emergency landing of an aircraft on water. It requires precise control and coordination to minimize damage and ensure passenger safety.
• Glide Path: The glide path is the descent trajectory an aircraft follows to land. Instruments like the glide scope help pilots maintain the correct angle of descent.
• Glide Scope: The glide scope is part of the ILS that provides vertical guidance to pilots during the approach and landing phase.
• Reverse Engine Thrust: Reverse thrust is used to slow down the aircraft after landing by redirecting engine thrust forward. It helps reduce landing roll distance.