Engineers Propose Airbag System to Enhance Aircraft Safety

A groundbreaking proposal to enhance aircraft safety has been introduced by two engineers, aiming to make planes crash-proof through the use of enormous airbags. The innovative concept, developed by Eshel Wasim and Dharsan Srinivasan from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Dubai, aims to transform what would be fatal crashes into survivable landings.

The idea emerged following the tragic Air India crash on June 12, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 260 lives. The aircraft went down shortly after departing from Ahmedabad Airport en route to London Gatwick Airport. This devastating incident deeply affected Wasim, who explained, “After the June 2025 Ahmedabad crash, my mother couldn’t sleep. She kept thinking about the fear the passengers and pilots must have felt, knowing there was no way out. That helplessness haunted us.”

Their project, named Project Rebirth, seeks to implement a system that utilizes artificial intelligence to detect when a crash is imminent. The AI would activate external airbags around the aircraft, aiming to cushion the impact, reduce descent speed, and absorb energy during a crash.

The Vision Behind Project Rebirth

The engineers submitted their proposal for the esteemed James Dyson Award, hoping to secure funding to turn their vision into reality. The system would deploy airbags made from layered fabric, wrapping around the nose, belly, and tail of the aircraft. Additionally, the concept includes the use of impact-absorbing fluids and reverse thrust to further mitigate the effects of a crash.

The AI system is designed to monitor critical factors such as altitude, speed, engine status, and pilot response. If a crash is deemed unavoidable below 3,000 feet, the system would automatically inflate the airbags, although pilots would still retain the ability to override this function.

While Project Rebirth presents an innovative approach to enhancing aviation safety, it remains in the conceptual phase. The engineers are now focused on refining their design and exploring its technical feasibility. National winners of the James Dyson Award have already been announced, and a global winner will be selected later this year, who will receive a prize of £30,000 to support their project.

Lessons from the Air India Crash

The Air India crash has prompted significant scrutiny, revealing critical findings from preliminary investigations. The report indicated dual engine shutdowns, confusion among pilots, and a ram air turbine (RAT) deployment prior to the crash. These insights underscore the importance of developing innovative safety measures in aviation.

As the world of aviation continues to evolve, the ambitious vision of Wasim and Srinivasan holds promise for a future where aircraft can better withstand emergencies. Their work exemplifies how tragedy can inspire innovative solutions, potentially saving countless lives in the years to come.