The crash of Air India flight AI171 on June 12, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India, en route to London Gatwick, has resulted in a complex and multifaceted aftermath. The incident claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members, along with 19 people on the ground, sending shockwaves through the aviation industry and prompting intense scrutiny from various quarters.

Investigation Focus and Preliminary Findings

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India is leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the United Kingdom's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). A preliminary report from the AAIB is expected around July 11, marking 30 days since the accident.

Early investigation efforts are centered on the movement of the engine fuel control switches in the cockpit. Investigators are analyzing the Boeing 787's integrated flight and voice data recorders to determine if improper, inadvertent, or intentional actions involving these switches contributed to the crash. Moving a fuel control switch from the "RUN" position to "CUTOFF" would halt the fuel supply, causing the engine to shut down immediately. These switches are guarded to prevent accidental movement.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the aircraft's emergency power system, the ram air turbine (RAT), was deployed during the crash, suggesting a potential dual-engine failure. The RAT provides limited electrical power to essential flight controls when the main power sources fail. Aerospace analyst Bjorn Fehrm noted the improbability of a simultaneous failure of both engines.

Pilot Error Allegations

Some Western media outlets are focusing on potential pilot error as a factor in the crash. Aviation experts suggest that in the event of a single-engine failure shortly after takeoff, a pilot might have mistakenly shut off the fuel supply to the working engine. However, Boeing 787 Dreamliner pilots have stated that dual-engine failure protocol is well-trained, making pilot error an unlikely scenario. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran vouched for the experience and professionalism of both pilots. Captain Sabharwal had over 11,500 hours of flying experience, while First Officer Kundar had more than 3,400 hours.

India's Response and Concerns

India's decision to analyze the black box data locally, rather than sending it to facilities in France or the US, has raised concerns. Additionally, there are questions regarding the independence of the AAIB, as it operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The ministry is emphasizing transparency and accountability in the investigation process.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stated that the preliminary probe report is expected soon and that the ministry is ensuring transparency and accountability in the investigation.

Other Theories and Considerations

While the focus is on the fuel control switches, other potential causes are still being considered. These include:

• Mechanical failure: Initial data does not indicate a mechanical or design flaw in the 787 or its engines. No safety advisories have been issued by the FAA or manufacturers.
• Bird strike: Some experts have suggested that a bird strike could have caused engine failure, although this remains speculative.
• Sabotage: This theory has also been floated, although there is no evidence to support it.

Impact and Aftermath

The Air India crash has had several significant consequences:

• Loss of life: The crash resulted in a devastating loss of life, with 260 fatalities.
• Air India's reputation: The incident is a setback for Air India, which was acquired by Tata Group in 2022 after years of financial struggles.
• Boeing's challenges: The crash has added to Boeing's existing challenges, as the company has faced scrutiny over safety lapses in recent years.
• Global aviation safety: The crash has raised concerns about global aviation safety, prompting calls for a thorough and transparent investigation.

The investigation into the Air India AI171 crash is ongoing, and the preliminary report is expected to provide initial insights into the cause of the tragedy. However, authorities have cautioned against assigning blame prematurely, as the full investigation will take time to complete. The findings will be crucial in determining the factors that contributed to the crash and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.