The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash that occurred on June 12, 2025, near Ahmedabad, India. The crash of the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner shortly after takeoff resulted in the deaths of 260 people. The AAIB has clarified that no initial report has been submitted yet, but findings are expected to be made public soon, possibly by July 12, adhering to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) norms. Here are 10 key points regarding the investigation:

1. Black Boxes Intact: The black boxes, which include the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR), were recovered and found to be undamaged. Investigators have extracted "good data" from them, which is crucial for reconstructing the events leading up to the crash. One device was found on a rooftop on June 13, and the other was recovered from debris on June 16.
2. Focus on Fuel Control Switches: The investigation has narrowed its focus to the movement of the plane's fuel control switches. A key theory being explored is whether the pilots inadvertently cut off the fuel supply to both engines.
3. Engine Thrust Issues: Engine thrust is also being examined as a contributing factor to the crash.
4. Possible Pilot Error: Preliminary findings suggest possible pilot error, with investigators considering the scenario where pilots attempted to isolate a failing engine but accidentally shut off fuel to both, leading to a loss of thrust.
5. No Mechanical Issues Identified: Initial assessments by US officials have found no mechanical issues with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Similarly, no evidence has emerged of a mechanical or design fault in the aircraft or GE engines.
6. Ram Air Turbine (RAT) Deployment: The deployment of the Ram Air Turbine, a key emergency backup device, supports the theory of a dual engine failure.
7. International Cooperation: The investigation is being conducted jointly by British, Indian, and US authorities, with assistance from aircraft manufacturer Boeing and other foreign experts.
8. AAIB Leading the Probe: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, under the civil aviation ministry, is responsible for classifying safety occurrences involving aircraft operating in Indian airspace. The multi-disciplinary team is headed by Director General GVG Yugandhar.
9. Preliminary Report Expected: A preliminary report is expected to be released soon, offering the first official insight into the cause of the crash. Union Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu stated that the preliminary report will be shared "very soon".
10. Data Analysis: The data from the black boxes is being analyzed to understand the final moments of the flight, and the report is expected to provide critical early clues, though authorities are not expected to assign blame at this stage.