The investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, which tragically claimed the lives of 270 people, has taken a significant step forward with the recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). This crucial discovery, confirmed on Sunday, June 15th, 2025, comes shortly after the recovery of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), often referred to as the "black box," on Friday.
The CVR is expected to provide invaluable insights into the final moments leading up to the crash. It captures all audio within the cockpit, including pilot conversations, radio transmissions, warning alarms, and any ambient mechanical sounds. This information, combined with the data from the FDR, which records flight parameters like altitude, speed, and engine performance, will allow investigators to create a comprehensive reconstruction of the events that led to the disaster.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from international agencies, including the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the U.K.'s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Initial reports suggest a possible thrust failure during takeoff as a contributing factor. The pilot's last communication with air traffic control included a distress call, "Thrust not achieved… falling… Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!" This message, coupled with the fact that the aircraft reportedly used nearly the entire 3.5-kilometer runway in its attempt to take off, has led investigators to focus on engine performance and potential mechanical issues.
However, authorities are also considering other possibilities, including human error and systems failure. The analysis of the black box data will be critical in determining whether any pre-existing technical faults were present, whether the crew followed proper procedures, and whether any other factors contributed to the accident.
In the aftermath of the crash, the Indian government has ordered inspections of all Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft in the country's fleet. Eight of the 34 Dreamliners have already undergone inspection, with the remaining aircraft to be examined with "immediate urgency." This proactive measure demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation's air travel and preventing future accidents.
Meanwhile, the painstaking process of identifying the victims continues. Most bodies were charred or mutilated, making visual identification impossible. Hundreds of relatives have provided DNA samples, and authorities are working to expedite the matching process.
The recovery of the CVR marks a significant milestone in the investigation. As the AAIB and its international partners analyze the data from both black boxes, the aviation community and the public await answers about what caused this devastating crash. The findings of the investigation will not only provide closure for the families of the victims but also contribute to enhanced safety measures and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
