Tragic Turn: Preliminary Report Unveils Critical Details in Deadly Air India AI171 Crash Investigation

A devastating incident shook the nation on June 12 when Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, claiming 260 lives. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has now released its preliminary report, shedding light on the initial findings of the ongoing Air India AI171 crash investigation. The report points to an unexpected and catastrophic loss of thrust just moments after the aircraft left the runway, revealing a complex interplay of events that led to one of India’s deadliest aviation accidents in recent memory.

Understanding the Initial Moments: Fuel Cutoff at the Heart of the Air India AI171 Crash Investigation

The preliminary findings indicate a critical malfunction within 90 seconds of liftoff. Both engines of the ill-fated aircraft unexpectedly shut down during the crucial initial climb phase, leading to a rapid and uncontrollable descent. According to the Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR) data, the fuel cutoff switches for both engines were inadvertently moved from the “RUN” to the “CUTOFF” position within a mere one-second interval, almost immediately after takeoff. A chilling exchange was captured in the cockpit, with one pilot questioning, “Why did you cut off?” and the response being, “I did not.” This revelation forms a central focus of the ongoing Air India AI171 crash investigation.

This uncommanded shutdown triggered the automatic deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), a critical emergency power system, but the aircraft had already begun its irreversible loss of altitude. Despite desperate attempts by the pilots to re-engage the fuel switches and relight the engines, only Engine 1 showed fleeting signs of recovering thrust, while Engine 2 remained unresponsive. The aircraft, which had briefly reached 180 knots, continued its descent, unable to regain any height.

The Catastrophic Impact and Immediate Aftermath of the Air India AI171 Crash

The final “MAYDAY” distress call was transmitted at 08:09 UTC, mere seconds before the aircraft tragically plunged into residential buildings just outside the Ahmedabad airport perimeter. The impact caused immense devastation, severely damaging several structures, including the BJ Medical College hostel. While the Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) did not activate, emergency services were remarkably swift, mobilizing within five minutes of the crash. The wreckage trail extended over 1,000 feet, with major components of the aircraft found deeply embedded in buildings and scattered widely across the crash site, underscoring the severity of the incident for the Air India AI171 crash investigation.

Aircraft and Crew Profile: Key Details for the Air India AI171 Crash Investigation

The aircraft involved, registered VT-ANB, was a Boeing 787-8 delivered in 2013. Records show it had recently undergone routine maintenance, with all Airworthiness Directives (ADs) complied with, and fuel quality confirmed to be within specifications. There were no reported technical defects immediately prior to the accident linked to either the engines or the flight control systems. Both pilots were highly experienced and fully qualified for the flight. The 56-year-old pilot-in-command boasted over 15,000 flying hours, while the 32-year-old co-pilot had over 3,400 hours. Neither had any recent duty irregularities or medical issues, broadening the scope of the Air India AI171 crash investigation.

Unpacking the FAA Advisory and Air India’s Action in the Air India AI171 Crash Investigation

A crucial detail highlighted in the preliminary report is a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) issued by the FAA in 2018. This bulletin had warned of a potential issue with the fuel control switch locking mechanism on similar Boeing aircraft. However, this advisory was not mandatory, and Air India had not performed the recommended inspections. The report notes that while the locking feature on the accident aircraft’s switches may have been disengaged, there were no prior defect reports related to the switch on this specific aircraft. This aspect will undoubtedly be a significant area of focus in the continued Air India AI171 crash investigation.

The Path Forward: International Cooperation and Future of the Air India AI171 Crash Investigation

The AAIB team is meticulously continuing its detailed analysis, working in close coordination with international investigators from the NTSB (USA), Boeing, GE, FAA, and safety agencies from the UK, Portugal, and Canada, whose citizens were among the victims. Their comprehensive review includes cockpit recordings, engine components, maintenance records, and an in-depth examination of pilot actions.

At this preliminary stage, the agency has not issued any immediate safety recommendations for B787-8 and/or GE GEnx-1B engine operators and manufacturers. However, further assessments are actively underway, particularly concerning the design safeguards for fuel control systems and potential human factors that may have contributed to the tragedy. The Air India AI171 crash investigation is ongoing, with additional evidence, records, and information being sought from all stakeholders. The final report, which will provide a complete picture of the accident’s causes, is anticipated in the coming months.