Engineers Propose Giant Airbags to Make Planes Crash-Proof

A groundbreaking proposal aims to enhance aviation safety by creating crash-proof aircraft using giant airbags. This innovative concept was developed by two engineers, Eshel Wasim and Dharsan Srinivasan, from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Dubai. The idea emerged following the tragic Air India crash on June 12, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 260 lives.

Following this catastrophe, Wasim’s personal experience motivated the development of the concept. “After the June 2025 Ahmedabad crash, my mother couldn’t sleep,” he recounted. “She kept thinking about the fear the passengers and pilots must have felt, knowing there was no way out. That helplessness haunted us.” This emotional impetus led the duo to submit their design to the prestigious James Dyson Award, seeking funding and support for their ambitious project.

Innovative Design Focused on Safety

The concept, named Project Rebirth, proposes a system that utilizes smart airbags, energy-absorbing fluids, and reverse thrust to transform potentially fatal crashes into survivable landings. The design includes external airbags that would envelop the aircraft’s nose, belly, and tail to cushion impacts.

The engineers have identified three critical areas that their design aims to address: cushioning impact, reducing descent speed, and absorbing energy during a crash. The core of the system relies on artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor critical flight parameters such as altitude, speed, and pilot response. Should the AI determine that a crash is unavoidable below 3,000 feet, it triggers the inflation of the airbags automatically, although the pilot retains the ability to override the system.

The concept’s feasibility, while promising, remains untested and will require further research to determine its practical application.

Contextual Background and Future Aspirations

The proposal was conceived in response to the devastating Air India crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport, which occurred just 32 seconds into the flight to London Gatwick Airport. Preliminary reports from the crash investigation highlighted multiple factors, including confusion among the flight crew and mechanical failures that played a part in the disaster.

As the project continues to develop, Wasim and Srinivasan eagerly await the results of the James Dyson Award, which will select a global winner later this year. The winning project will receive a prize of £30,000 to help bring their concept to fruition.

The innovative spirit of Project Rebirth reflects a commitment to improving aviation safety and transforming the way we think about crash prevention. The engineers hope their design will not only save lives but also change the narrative surrounding aviation safety, turning what were once seen as fatal incidents into manageable emergencies.