A preliminary report has been released regarding the Air India Flight AI171 crash that occurred on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad, India. The flight, operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was en route to London Gatwick Airport. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in a devastating loss of life.

Key Findings of the Preliminary Report

The preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) reveals that both engines of the aircraft shut down mid-air within seconds of takeoff. Specifically, the fuel control switches for both engines transitioned from the "RUN" to "CUTOFF" position in quick succession. This occurred approximately 65 seconds after the aircraft began its takeoff roll. The sudden cutoff of fuel supply led to a loss of thrust, leaving the pilots struggling to regain control.

According to the cockpit voice recording, one pilot is heard asking the other, "Why did you cut off?" to which the other pilot responded that he did not. This exchange highlights the confusion and lack of immediate explanation for the engine shutdowns.

The report also indicates that the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), an emergency power source, deployed immediately after liftoff, suggesting a complete loss of power to essential systems. The aircraft reached a maximum indicated airspeed of 180 knots before the engine failures. A "Mayday" call was issued just seconds before the aircraft impacted the ground.

Crash Details and Casualties

Air India Flight 171 crashed approximately 30 seconds after takeoff into a hostel complex at Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College, which was located near the airport. The aircraft impacted the buildings with a nose-up attitude and level wings, but with both engines inactive. The crash resulted in a large fire, and the aircraft was destroyed due to the impact and subsequent fire.

Of the 242 people on board (230 passengers and 12 crew members), 241 were killed. Only one passenger, Vishwas Kumar Prakash, an British-Indian man seated in 11A, survived the crash. In addition, 19 people on the ground were killed, and at least 67 were injured. In total, the accident caused 260 fatalities.

Investigation Status

The AAIB has launched a full investigation into the crash. The preliminary report is based on initial findings, and the investigation is ongoing. Investigators have completed wreckage site activities, including drone photography and videography, and the wreckage has been moved to a secure area. The engines have been quarantined for further examination, and components of interest have been set aside for detailed analysis.

The aircraft's black boxes, the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder, were recovered. However, the aft Extended Airframe Flight Recorder (EAFR) was substantially damaged, and its data could not be accessed through conventional methods. The data from the cockpit voice recorder has revealed the pilots' confusion regarding the fuel cutoff.

Possible Causes and Contributing Factors

At this stage of the investigation, the cause of the fuel control switches moving to the "cutoff" position remains undetermined. The AAIB has stated that there are no recommended actions for Boeing 787-8 or GE GEnx-1B engine operators or manufacturers, suggesting no immediate indication of technical issues with the aircraft or engines. The investigation has also ruled out bird activity as a factor.

The investigators are analyzing the black box data in detail and gathering additional information from eyewitnesses and the lone survivor. The focus has narrowed to the movement of the engine fuel control switches.

Air India's Response

Air India has expressed solidarity with the families of the victims and has committed to providing support. The airline has established contact with the families and is assisting them with the necessary procedures. Air India has refuted allegations that it is attempting to reduce compensation payments by forcing families to disclose financial dependency.

Global Impact and Safety Concerns

The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The incident has raised concerns about aviation safety standards and the need for improved oversight.