A preliminary report on the Air India Flight AI 171 crash, which occurred on June 12 in Ahmedabad, is expected to be released soon, offering an initial glimpse into the final moments of the flight. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is preparing to release the report approximately one month after the incident, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members, and over 30 people on the ground.

The investigation has centered on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner's fuel control switches and engine thrust. Investigators are focusing on the possibility of fuel control switch movement as a potential cause for the dual engine failure shortly after takeoff. The switches, which control the flow of fuel to the engines, are typically only used during engine start-up and shutdown. According to sources familiar with the matter, the fuel control switches were found in the off position. It remains unclear whether this was accidental or intentional, and if any attempts were made to turn them back on.

The AAIB has recovered and analyzed the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR), commonly known as black boxes. The devices were found undamaged and have yielded good data. The FDR contains technical data such as altitude, speed, heading, and engine performance, while the CVR records cockpit audio, including crew conversations and radio communications. Boeing and other international experts are assisting with the investigation.

The Air India flight, bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. The aircraft, fully loaded with fuel, rapidly lost altitude and crashed into a student hostel near the airport, resulting in a massive explosion. The pilot issued a mayday call before the crash. Videos of the takeoff show the flight proceeding normally until the landing gear was not retracted and the aircraft began to lose thrust.

Investigators have not yet found any evidence of mechanical or design flaws in the Boeing aircraft or GE engines. No safety advisories have been issued by the FAA or the manufacturers, which is typical when a broader operational risk is detected. The probe is also examining the backgrounds and experience of the pilots.

The preliminary report is expected to be factual and restrained, providing critical early clues without assigning blame. The AAIB shared that the black boxes from last month's deadly Air India crash were not damaged and have yielded “good data,” countering earlier media reports. The EU Aviation Safety Agency plans to investigate Air India Express after reports of non-compliance with engine part directives and falsified records. India's aviation watchdog has also warned Air India for violating rules regarding overdue checks on escape slides.