The preliminary report regarding the Air India Flight AI 171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, is expected to be released next week and will outline the possible causes of the tragic incident. The crash, involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London Gatwick, occurred shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in the death of over 250 people. Only one of the 242 people on board survived. The aircraft also crashed into the residential quarters of BJ Medical College, killing nine people on the ground.
Murlidhar Mohol, the Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, stated that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is thoroughly investigating all possible angles, including potential sabotage. The AAIB is not sending the black box outside the country and will conduct the entire investigation. Data extraction from the black boxes began on June 24. The crash-protected memory unit from the front recorder has been successfully retrieved, accessed, and its data downloaded.
In accordance with international rules set by the UN aviation body ICAO, a preliminary report should be released within 30 days of the crash, with the final report expected within 12 months.
Several theories are being explored to determine the cause of the crash. One prominent theory suggests a rare simultaneous engine failure. Aviation experts have noted the unlikelihood of both engines shutting down together, making this a particularly unusual case. Investigators are analyzing data from the black box, including the cockpit voice recorder, to ascertain whether the cause was an engine issue, a fuel supply problem, or another factor. Fuel contamination is also being considered as a possible cause of dual engine failure. Investigators will examine the fuel used, the maintenance of refueling equipment at the airport, and the fuel storage location. They will also look into whether the fuel was contaminated as part of a deliberate act of sabotage.
Other potential causes under review include technical faults, improper flap or landing gear configuration, maintenance errors, or inadvertent crew actions. Some experts have suggested that CCTV footage indicates the aircraft's wing flaps were not extended during takeoff, which would have reduced lift. Additionally, the landing gear appeared to be deployed instead of being retracted.
The possibility of sabotage is also being seriously considered. Minister Mohol stated that CCTV footage is being reviewed, and several agencies are involved in the probe. Investigators will also be looking at the possibility of any criminal charges.
Preliminary theories from aviation experts suggest a rare simultaneous engine failure may have brought down the aircraft. The pilot issued a 'Mayday' distress call shortly after takeoff, according to Ahmedabad Air Traffic Control. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the aircraft’s emergency power generator, known as the ram air turbine (RAT), was operating when the plane crashed, which aviation experts said indicated engine power failure may have been the cause. The investigation team is also assessing airport surveillance footage, radio communication, and environmental conditions at the time of takeoff. Bird strikes have been ruled out.
