A crash-proof plane design is in the headlines these days. It is codenamed Project Rebirth. And promises survival, a second chance for passengers in case of a plane crash.

Two students, Eshel Wasim and Dharsan Srinivasan, from the Dubai-based Birla Institute of Technology and Science, have developed the crash-proof plane concept. Both suggest they started working on a plane survival system concept after the Air India 171 plane tragedy.

What are the key features of this concept?

Crash-prediction AI, external airbags, reverse thrust, seats with non-Newtonian fluids, and multiple options to send rescue signals are vital components of the concept.

The system utilizes AI algorithms, smart fluids, and sensors that can anticipate a crash while the plane is at an altitude of less than 3,000 feet. It monitors aspects like flight direction, engine status, altitude, speed, temperature, possible fire, and pilot response. In the event of technical failures, including engine failure, the system automatically deploys a massive airbag ‘cocoon’ around the aircraft within two seconds. It cushions the plane and alerts pilots to prepare for an emergency landing. Aircraft reverse thrust system in the concept is designed to deploy drag parachutes in order to create reverse thrust and slow the aircraft for a controlled touchdown. Pilots can also control and manually stop external airbags from inflating.  After some tweaks, it can work with both Boeing and Airbus planes.

How is it different from other aircraft safety systems?

Most existing safety systems work towards preventing crashes.  On the other hand, the AI-powered plane safety system helps the aircraft survive a crash. Rebirth is a promise to passengers that they can survive and live even if all the airplane systems fail. This AI-powered crash survival system has managed to become one of the finalists in the James Dyson Award, 2025.

As of now, the system is on the drawing board and in the form of concept models. Engineers suggest it can be retrofitted into current fleets and new aircraft as well.

Areas of concern

Adding five components would require introducing major changes in the aircraft structure. These modifications require time and expenditure. Also, all the components of the system would add a considerable weight to a fuselage. And this would increase the fuel intake, leading to operational cost escalation. Thus, the concept is feasible for small planes rather than bigger aircraft. Experts have also highlighted the need to study the consequences resulting from the system being activated due to an error.

Available systems and safety record

Do aircraft have built-in parachutes? Well, yes. Smaller planes such as ICON A5, Cirrus Vision Jet, and those from the Cirrus SR series have a built-in whole-aircraft parachute system. But what about the safety record? As of 2019, 24 Cirrus aircraft with Cirrus Airframe Parachute System reportedly crashed. Out of these, 21 survived the incident and were back in service after repairs.

The FAA has approved several Parachute-based aircraft safety systems. Some of the most used ones are Cirrus Airframe Parachute System from BRS, and BRS-600, BRS-800, GRS 6/600 SD, and GRS 6/650 SD. Yet, these solutions are designed for light and smaller aircraft.

Aircraft are the safest mode of transport

When it comes to the percentage of transport-related deaths, road travel leads the list. On the other hand, rigorous pilot training, advanced technology, and strict regulations have helped commercial aviation to ensure the lowest accident and fatality rates. Today, every aircraft is loaded with a collision avoidance system, weather radar, redundant engines, and other safety systems. Aircraft are monitored on a real-time basis by several stakeholders. Technologies like digital twins (IoT)have raised the safety standards even further.

All in all, concepts like Project REBIRTH would elevate safety levels significantly. If the AI crash survival system works as envisioned and becomes a certified technology, passengers’ chances of survival would increase. Furthermore, improved detection and signaling could expedite rescue operations. Lastly, it is a matter of great pride that Indian-origin engineers have developed the concept.

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