In the wake of the tragic AI-171 Air India crash on June 12, 2025, which involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad and resulted in 241 fatalities, a purported preliminary investigation report has been making rounds on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has stepped in to debunk this misinformation, clarifying that the circulating message is entirely fabricated and not issued by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
The viral message falsely claims to be the preliminary investigation report of the AI-171 crash, alleging that the crash was caused by a double engine failure. The PIB's fact-checking unit has investigated the message and issued a clear rebuttal, confirming that the message is not authentic, has not been issued by the AAIB, and contains misleading information. The PIB emphasized the importance of relying on official sources for accurate information and urged the public to be cautious of such misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
The AAIB is currently leading a detailed investigation into the crash, focusing on critical systems such as engine thrust, wing flaps, and landing gear, as well as the airline's maintenance procedures. The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) has been recovered and is expected to provide essential insights into the final moments of the flight. Investigators are also reviewing engine thrust, wing flaps, landing gear, and maintenance records to identify the cause. Boeing, along with investigation teams from the US and the UK, are also probing the incident.
The spread of misinformation during sensitive times, such as after a tragic accident, can cause unnecessary distress and confusion. It is crucial to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media platforms where unverified claims can spread rapidly. Always check with official fact-checking bodies like PIB before believing or sharing such claims. Relying on trusted sources of information and verifying information through official channels are essential steps in preventing the spread of fake news.
The AI-171 crash, which took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, also resulted in the deaths of 29 people on the ground when the plane crashed into a student hostel of BJ Medical College. While early reports claimed 270 lives were lost, with one survivor, DNA tests have identified at least 87 victims.
