Ahmedabad: One year after the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 that claimed 260 lives, investigators, aviation experts and victims’ families are still awaiting a definitive answer to the biggest question surrounding India’s deadliest aviation disaster in decades: Was the crash caused by pilot action, a technical malfunction, or a combination of both?
On June 12, 2025, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed just 32 seconds after takeoff, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 others on the ground. The accident marked the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since the aircraft entered commercial service.
A preliminary report released by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) revealed that both engine fuel control switches moved from the “RUN” position to “CUTOFF” seconds after takeoff, causing fuel supply to both engines to stop. Although attempts were made to restart the engines, the aircraft lost thrust at a critically low altitude and crashed before recovery was possible.
However, the preliminary findings have not ended the debate. Aviation experts remain divided over whether the switches were intentionally or accidentally moved by a pilot, or whether an electrical or mechanical malfunction triggered the event. Several specialists have argued that the available evidence remains incomplete and that more technical analysis is needed before any conclusion can be reached.
The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has repeatedly criticized speculation surrounding the investigation and recently called for a judicial inquiry into the crash. The pilots’ body has argued that releasing incomplete findings could create public confusion and unfairly influence perceptions before the final report is completed.
Adding to the controversy, pilot associations have raised concerns that important Boeing 787 system codes and technical data may not yet have been fully decoded. According to the FIP, gaps in the investigation have fueled uncertainty about whether a technical issue may have contributed to the disaster.
The final investigation report, originally expected around the first anniversary of the crash, has reportedly been delayed because investigators are still examining the aircraft’s GE Aerospace engines and related electronic systems. Officials are also conducting additional technical assessments in coordination with international aviation agencies and manufacturers.
Investigators have reportedly conducted specialized testing in multiple countries, including France and the United States, to determine whether any hidden faults in engine controls, software systems or aircraft components played a role in the accident.
Meanwhile, families of the victims continue to seek answers. Many relatives have stated that while compensation provides financial support, it cannot replace transparency and accountability. Several families have urged authorities to release a complete and credible explanation of what happened on that fateful day.
The sole survivor of the crash has also publicly called for the truth to be revealed, emphasizing that only a thorough investigation can provide closure to the families affected by the tragedy.
Industry observers note that the outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for aviation safety worldwide. Any findings related to cockpit procedures, aircraft design, engine management systems or flight controls could influence future regulations and safety protocols across the global airline industry.
For now, the mystery surrounding Air India AI171 remains unresolved. With investigators still examining critical evidence and the final report yet to be released, the question of whether pilot error, electronic failure or another factor caused the crash continues to be one of the most closely watched issues in global aviation.
