Home

News

Video

In-Short
Air India Crash: Analyst Blames Chip Malfunction Based on Graphic Report Findings; Reuters Reports
  • 246 views
  • 2 min read

A preliminary report regarding the Air India flight AI171 crash that occurred last month in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, killing 260 people, indicates a chip malfunction as a potential cause. A former pilot, in an interview with Reuters on Saturday, July 12, 2025, suggested that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) report points towards a technical issue rather than pilot error.

The report indicates that the engine fuel cutoff switches flipped almost simultaneously, starving the engines of fuel shortly after takeoff. According to the former pilot, the report suggests that a chip malfunction, such as a chip not working properly or losing contact, could be the reason behind the incident. He explained that the fuel control unit (FU) might not have received the command to stay in a run position, leading to a brief interruption in fuel supply.

The former pilot elaborated that the system might have stopped functioning due to excessive workload, comparing it to a laptop shutting down or experiencing a blue screen of death. He also raised concerns about whether Air India had carried out the necessary maintenance and replacement of certain chips in accordance with the Service Bulletin. He noted that the thermal cycle being in a warm condition could have caused the signal to not be contacted properly.

However, the preliminary report has faced backlash in India, with some arguing that it leans towards pilot error while seemingly dismissing mechanical or electrical failure possibilities. According to the preliminary report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the two engine fuel control switches on the plane were moved from the "RUN" to "CUTOFF" position. These switches control fuel flow to the engines and should only be used when the aircraft is on ground, first to start the engines before a flight and later to shut them down at the gate. They are designed so they're unlikely to be changed accidentally, pointing to possible human error on the Air India flight. The findings include the final conversation between the pilots and show there was confusion in the cockpit as well. When one pilot asked the other why he cut off the fuel, he responded to say he did not do so.

Adding to the complexity, Captain Amit Singh from Safety Matters Foundation highlighted that a previous FAA bulletin warned about the potential for these switches to be installed with the locking feature disengaged. He also questioned why the plane's emergency locator transmitter (ELT) didn't send a signal after the crash. Aviation expert Terry Tozner noted that it's unclear whether the latch mechanisms on the fuel cut-off switches were functioning correctly on the aircraft.

The rear flight recorder, designed to withstand significant impact forces and temperatures, was damaged beyond recovery, raising concerns about its survivability.

The investigation is ongoing, and the final report is expected to take a year.


Writer - Yash Menon
Yash Menon, an aspiring journalist with a keen interest in investigative reporting and a genuine passion for sports, is committed to factual storytelling. Having recently completed his journalism degree, Yash is eager to apply his skills professionally. He is particularly passionate about amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities and exploring complex social issues with integrity and depth, drawing parallels from the dedication found in sports.
Advertisement

Latest Post


Entertainment  |  Jul 13, 2025
In a recent interview, Amaal Mallik has made startling revelations about the professional rivalry between his father, Daboo Malik, and his uncle, Anu Malik, alleging that Anu Malik sabotaged Daboo Malik's career out of jealousy. Amaal claims that Anu...

Business  |  Jul 13, 2025
Investors in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) 2020-21 Series IV, which opened for subscription between July 6 and July 10, 2020, are poised to receive substantial returns upon the commencement of the early redemption option on July 14, 2025. The Reserve B...

World  |  Jul 13, 2025
The UK aviation authorities are currently reviewing the preliminary report concerning the Air India Flight AI171 crash that occurred on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad, India. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) in the UK is carefully examining...

Entertainment  |  Jul 13, 2025
Ajay Devgn recently shared a series of stylish photographs on his Instagram account, sparking a flurry of reactions from fans and fellow celebrities. The actor, known for his versatile performances and enduring presence in Bollywood, posted pictures ...

Advertisement
Entertainment  |  Jul 13, 2025
Liam Payne, the former One Direction star who tragically passed away on October 16, 2024, at the age of 31, reportedly left behind two complete albums. According to sources, the unreleased music is some of Payne's most personal work and was created d...

Entertainment  |  Jul 13, 2025
Reports have emerged that Abdu Rozik, the Tajikistani singer and social media influencer known for his appearance on Bigg Boss 16, was detained in Dubai on allegations of theft. The news, which broke on Saturday, July 12, 2025, states that Rozik was ...

Sports  |  Jul 13, 2025
Sunil Gavaskar was visibly upset with England's tactics on Day 3 of the third Test against India at Lord's, calling their approach "not cricket at all". The former Indian captain and batting legend criticized England for employing a heavy leg-side fi...

Video Broadcast  |  Jul 13, 2025
The recent Air India crash, which tragically claimed 260 lives, has brought the function and design of the fuel control switch to the forefront of aviation safety discussions. A preliminary report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AA...

Advertisement
About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 DailyDigest360