The Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad, a tragic event that claimed the lives of nearly all on board, has triggered a wide-ranging investigation to determine the root cause of the disaster. Aviation experts and investigators are meticulously examining various factors, from potential mechanical failures to human error, in their quest to understand what went wrong in the final moments of the flight.
Initial findings have revealed that the aircraft's emergency power system, known as the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), was activated shortly before the crash. The RAT deploys to provide emergency power in critical situations, suggesting a possible loss of engine power or a complete electrical failure. This activation raises serious questions about the engines' functionality during takeoff. While the activation of the RAT is a significant clue, investigators are cautious and have not yet confirmed whether engine failure, hydraulic problems, or other technical issues triggered its deployment.
One theory gaining traction is the possibility of a co-pilot error involving the flaps and landing gear. Some experts suggest that the co-pilot may have inadvertently retracted the flaps instead of raising the landing gear after takeoff. Retracting the flaps prematurely could have led to a loss of lift, causing the aircraft to stall and crash. Video footage appears to show the landing gear remaining down after takeoff, lending some support to this theory. However, the video resolution is insufficient for definitive confirmation.
Another area of focus is potential engine-related issues. The right engine of the crashed Boeing 787 Dreamliner had been overhauled in March 2025, and the left engine was inspected in April. While Air India maintains that the aircraft and engines showed no issues before the flight, investigators are scrutinizing maintenance records and engine performance data. Ahmed Busnaina, an airplane engineer, suggested that engine failure is a strong possibility, particularly during takeoff when maximum thrust is required. He noted that various mechanical issues, such as corrosion, blade breakage, or fuel supply problems, could lead to engine failure.
Human factors are also under scrutiny. Investigators are analyzing the flight crew's actions and decision-making during the critical moments after takeoff. Taking off with a heavy load of fuel, passengers, and cargo in hot weather presents significant challenges, and investigators are assessing whether any decisions made by the pilots jeopardized the aircraft's safety.
The investigation is complex and multifaceted, involving experts from India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The aircraft's black boxes, including the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder, are being analyzed to provide crucial insights into the pilots' communications and the aircraft's technical parameters. The probe is expected to take a year or more to complete, as investigators meticulously gather and analyze all available evidence.
In the aftermath of the crash, Air India has grounded several of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft for safety checks, leading to flight cancellations and disruptions. The airline is cooperating with investigators and has promised to provide updates as the investigation progresses. The crash has raised concerns about the safety of Air India's fleet and has prompted a renewed focus on maintenance and safety procedures.
