The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London Gatwick, shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, has claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, along with at least 38 people on the ground. While investigations are underway, the narrative surrounding "pilot error" as a potential cause is gaining traction, raising concerns about premature conclusions and the complexities of modern aviation accidents.
Immediately following the crash, various theories emerged, ranging from engine failure and misconfigured flaps to electrical malfunctions. The pilot's distress call, reporting "thrust not achieved," further fueled speculation about potential mechanical issues during takeoff. However, aviation experts have also highlighted the possibility of human error, specifically related to flap settings and landing gear retraction.
One theory suggests that the co-pilot may have mistakenly raised the flaps instead of retracting the landing gear, leading to a loss of lift. Video footage allegedly shows the landing gear remaining down after takeoff, creating significant drag. While the resolution of the video is insufficient for definitive confirmation, this possibility has been widely discussed. Some experts point to similarities with the Concorde crash, where engine power loss led to insufficient lift.
The focus on pilot error is problematic for several reasons. Firstly, it risks oversimplifying a complex event with numerous potential contributing factors. Modern aircraft accidents are rarely the result of a single cause but rather a chain of events involving mechanical failures, environmental conditions, and human actions. Attributing the crash solely to pilot error prematurely ignores other crucial aspects of the investigation.
Secondly, it places undue blame on the pilots, who are unable to defend themselves. Both the pilot and co-pilot of Flight AI171 are believed to have perished in the crash. Investigations should focus on understanding their actions and decisions within the context of the circumstances they faced, rather than immediately assuming negligence. It is important to consider factors such as fatigue, workload, and the design of the aircraft's systems, which may have contributed to any errors made.
Thirdly, amplifying the pilot error narrative can detract from other critical areas of investigation, such as potential mechanical or systemic issues with the aircraft. Boeing, in particular, has faced increased scrutiny in recent years regarding safety concerns and quality control. The Air India crash has resurfaced these concerns, with some experts pointing to previous incidents and allegations of cost-cutting measures that may have compromised safety.
The investigation into the Flight AI171 crash is ongoing, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Boeing, and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) involved. The recovery of the flight data recorder (black box) and cockpit voice recorder is expected to provide crucial insights into the final moments of the flight. These recordings will reveal critical information about the aircraft's performance, the pilots' actions, and any audible warnings or alarms that may have sounded in the cockpit.
While pilot error remains a possibility, it is essential to avoid premature conclusions and allow investigators to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. The focus should be on identifying all contributing factors to the crash, including mechanical failures, systemic issues, and human factors, to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The emphasis on pilot error risks overshadowing other critical aspects of the investigation and could ultimately hinder efforts to improve aviation safety.
