The air India plane crash report for Flight 171 has captured global attention as investigators work to uncover the cause of one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent years. On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 260 people, including 19 on the ground. The newly released air India flight crash report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) provides the first official account of the tragedy, raising critical questions about the moments In the moments preceding the crash, as well as the conduct of the flight crew.
Air India Flight 171 Crash: What Happened?
According to the report on the Air India crash, Flight 171 launched from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:39 IST, destined for London Gatwick. Just 32 seconds after take-off, the aircraft lost thrust in both engines and crashed into a residential area 1.2 nautical miles from the runway, resulting in catastrophic loss of life. Only one passenger survived—the person seated in 11A, a British citizen of Indian origin.
The air India plane crash investigation reveals that both engine fuel cut-off switches, which control fuel supply to the engines, were manually moved from the “RUN” to the “CUTOFF” position within one second of each other. This action led to an immediate loss of thrust in both engines. Cockpit voice recordings captured one pilot asking the other, “Why did you cut off?” to which the other replied, “I did not do so,” highlighting confusion and urgency in the cockpit.
Timeline of Key Events: Air India 171 Crash
| Time (IST) | Event Description |
| 13:39 | Flight 171 takes off from Ahmedabad |
| +32 sec | Both engines lose thrust after fuel cut-off switches move to “CUTOFF” |
| +40 sec | Aircraft crashes into a residential area, 1.2 nm from runway |
| Aftermath | 260 fatalities (241 onboard, 19 on ground), 1 survivor |
Highlights from the Air India Plane Crash Preliminary Report
- Manual Fuel Cut-off: The AAIB report confirms that the engine fuel cut-off switches were manually moved, requiring deliberate action. These switches are protected by a guard and cannot be triggered by turbulence or a software glitch
- Cockpit Confusion: Cockpit voice recordings indicate confusion between the pilots, with both denying responsibility for the fuel cut-off action.
- No Immediate Technical Defect: The report indicates that, at this point, there is no proof of a technical defect in the Boeing 787-8 or its engines.
- Pilot Medical History: Questions have been raised by aviation professionals about the psychological and medical histories of the crew, although both pilots had recently passed their medical examinations.
- Ongoing Investigation: The AAIB has not assigned blame or drawn final conclusions. The investigation continues, focusing on human factors, possible deliberate action, and further technical analysis.
Air India Crash Report: Investigation Process
The air India plane crash investigation is being conducted by the AAIB, with support from Boeing and engine manufacturer GE. Investigators have secured the wreckage, retrieved flight data and cockpit voice recorders, and are analyzing all available evidence. The preliminary report does not recommend immediate action for other Boeing 787-8 operators, as no systemic technical issue has been identified.
Steps in the Investigation
- Site Analysis: Wreckage secured and moved to a protected zone for analysis.
- Information Gathering: Flight data along with cockpit voice recorders examined for timeline reconstruction.
- Crew Background Check: Medical and psychological history under review.
- Technical Review: Ongoing examination of aircraft systems and controls.
- International Cooperation: Boeing and GE are supporting the investigation as per global aviation protocols.
Table: Air India Flight 171 Crash Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
| Flight Number | Air India 171 |
| Aircraft | Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner |
| Date | June 12, 2025 |
| Departure | Ahmedabad, India |
| Destination | London Gatwick, UK |
| Fatalities | 260 (241 onboard, 19 on ground) |
| Survivors | 1 |
| Main Finding | Both engine fuel cutoff switches manually activated |
| Report Status | Preliminary, investigation ongoing |
Air India Crash Updates: What’s Next?
The air India crash updates indicate that the investigation is far from over. The AAIB will continue to analyse technical data, interview crew and witnesses, and examine all possible scenarios including human error, deliberate action, and rare technical anomalies. The final report is expected to provide more definitive answers and recommendations for aviation safety.
Air India Plane Crash Report FAQ
What does the Air India plane crash report say?
The preliminary report states that both engine fuel cut-off switches were manually moved to “CUTOFF” seconds after take-off, causing both engines to lose thrust and the aircraft to crash.
Was there a technical fault with the aircraft?
There are no immediate technical faults discovered in the Boeing 787-8 or its engines. The investigation is focusing on cockpit actions and human factors.
Did the pilots act deliberately?
The report does not assign blame or suggest deliberate action, but aviation experts have raised questions about the possibility. The investigation is ongoing, including a review of medical and psychological records.
How many people survived the crash?
Only one passenger survived, seated in 11A. All other passengers, crew, and 19 people on the ground died in the crash.
What happens next in the investigation?
The AAIB will continue its investigation, analysing technical, human, and environmental factors. Boeing and GE are assisting as per international aviation protocols.
Conclusion
The air India plane crash report for Flight 171 provides a sobering look at the sequence of events that led to the tragic loss of 260 lives. While the preliminary findings highlight cockpit confusion and manual fuel cutoff, the investigation is ongoing and has not yet assigned blame. As the AAIB continues its work, the focus remains on uncovering the full truth and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future tragedies.
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