The investigation into the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad is rapidly unfolding, with authorities and experts working diligently to determine the cause of the disaster. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, killing 241 passengers and crew members and 29 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived the crash.
A multi-pronged approach is being used to investigate the crash. India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from teams from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the U.K., and Boeing. The Indian government has also established a high-level committee to investigate the crash and recommend any necessary changes to standard operating procedures. This committee is expected to submit a preliminary report within three months.
A crucial element of the investigation involves the "black boxes" – the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). Both recorders have been located and secured. The FDR logs a vast amount of data from the aircraft's systems, including altitude, speed, and engine performance. The CVR captures audio from the cockpit, including conversations between the pilots, alarms, and ambient sounds. Analysis of this data is expected to provide vital clues about what occurred in the final moments of the flight.
In addition to analyzing the black boxes, investigators are examining various other factors that may have contributed to the crash. These include reviewing CCTV footage from the area surrounding the airport, interviewing witnesses, and studying the pilot's training records. Investigators are also assessing the aircraft's maintenance history, total load, potential issues with the engine's thrust, and any previously reported problems. Possible causes under consideration include loss of thrust in both engines, bird strikes, or a wing flap issue.
Following the crash, Indian authorities began inspecting Air India's fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that the remaining aircraft would be examined with "immediate urgency".
The aftermath of the crash has had a ripple effect on the aviation sector in India. Several airlines have grounded flights, citing technical concerns and increased caution. Air India is offering full refunds, hotel stays, and free rescheduling to stranded passengers.
