📌 Introduction
Air India Flight AI171 tragically crashed on June 12, 2025, near Ahmedabad, claiming 260 lives. The preliminary AAIB report reveals a startling sequence: sudden fuel cutoff switches and cockpit confusion. In this post, we’ll unpack:
- What caused the crash
- What the report revealed
- What questions remain
- What happens next in the investigation
What Happened to Air India Flight AI171?
On June 12, 2025, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner departing Ahmedabad for London lost thrust just seconds after takeoff. Both engines shut down in rapid succession, causing the aircraft to crash in a nearby residential area. 260 people perished, including those on the ground.
Key Findings from the Preliminary AAIB Report
1. Sudden Fuel Cutoff Switch Movement
- Both engine fuel switches flipped from RUN to CUTOFF within a second of each other, cutting off the fuel supply.
- Cockpit audio captured: “Why did you cut off?”
“I didn’t.”
indicating neither pilot believed they acted.
2. Engines Attempted Restart
- Fuel switches were moved back to RUN, and one engine briefly showed signs of restart—but it was too late.
3. Emergency Systems Activated
- Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed automatically, indicating total loss of engine power.
4. No Weather or Bird Strike Issues
- Takeoff was smooth, visibility was clear, and fuel was uncontaminated.
5. Pilot Experience Verified
- Captain Sabharwal and Co‑pilot Kunder were well-rested and medically fit.
Open Questions & Areas of Concern
- How did both switches move? Experts doubt accidental movement; mechanical failure or intentional action is under investigation.
- FAA Advisory of 2018: Raised concerns over faulty switch-lock mechanisms, but Air India didn’t act on the non-mandatory bulletins.
- Transparency issues: Aviation experts urge publication of full cockpit voice and flight data recorder transcripts.
What Comes Next in the Investigation (H2)
- Black box analysis: FDR and CVR data extraction is underway; multiple international bodies (NTSB, Boeing, GE, FAA) are reviewing.
- Safety directives: DGCA has ordered advanced inspections across Air India’s 787 fleet.
- Final AAIB report: Expected within a year, offering a comprehensive cause analysis and safety recommendations.
What This Means & Key Takeaways (H2)
- Human error or mechanical failure? The sudden switch movement remains unexplained.
- Flight deck design concerns: Visibility, accessibility, and lock reliability of fuel switches need deeper review.
- Regulatory oversight gaps: The non-mandatory nature of FAA advisories highlights compliance vulnerabilities.
🔚 Conclusion
The initial AAIB report into Flight AI171 shows alarming cockpit confusion over fuel switch activation—raising questions about design, training, and oversight. As the investigation continues, global cooperation and transparency will be crucial to uncover the truth and prevent future tragedies.
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FAQ
What caused the Air India AI171 crash?
Preliminary findings show that both engine fuel cutoff switches moved mid-air, cutting thrust and leading to the crash. Investigations are ongoing.
Were the pilots experienced?
Yes, the captain had over 15,600 flight hours, and the co-pilot had around 3,400. Both were medically cleared and fit to fly.
What are the next steps?
Black boxes are being analyzed, international agencies are involved, safety checks on other 787s have been ordered, and the AAIB’s final report is due within a year.
