The preliminary report regarding the Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, 2025, which resulted in 260 fatalities, has ignited a debate between those who suspect pilot error and those who believe a mechanical flaw may be to blame. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report revealed that the engine fuel control switches were moved to the "cutoff" position during the flight, leading to the engines shutting down. This finding has led to speculation about potential pilot error, while pilot associations are staunchly defending their members, calling for a fair and impartial investigation.
The AAIB's preliminary report has brought forth concerns and sparked speculation regarding the movement of the fuel supply switches, which regulate the fuel supply to the engines. According to the report, after reaching its top recorded speed, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner's engine 1 and engine 2 fuel cutoff switches moved from the "RUN" to "CUTOFF" position with a one-second gap between them. During the cockpit voice recording, one pilot can be heard asking the other why he cutoff the fuel supply, and the other pilot responded that he did not. The switches then returned to the "RUN" position, and the engines seemed to be gathering power, but one of the pilots transmitted "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY".
This information has led some aviation experts to suggest that the switches require a deliberate manual action, making accidental movement unlikely. However, the Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA) has strongly refuted any insinuations of pilot suicide or error, deeming such claims as reckless and unfounded. The association emphasized that there is no basis for such claims and that it is insensitive to the individuals and families involved.
Adding another layer to the complexity, the Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India) has criticized the investigation agency for its secrecy and lack of involvement of qualified personnel. ALPA India, along with ICPA, is advocating for a fair, fact-based inquiry, with ALPA India President Sam Thomas calling for the pilots' body to be included in the probe as observers. Both pilots involved were experienced, with approximately 19,000 flying hours between them, including over 9,000 on the 787.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson stated that the preliminary report indicated no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or engines. He also cautioned against premature conclusions, noting that the report has provided greater clarity but also opened additional questions. Following the crash, all Boeing 787 aircraft in Air India's fleet underwent checks and were found fit to fly.
Furthermore, the report revealed that a previous crew had reported a stabilizer sensor defect. An Air India on-duty maintenance engineer conducted troubleshooting, and the aircraft was cleared for flight. The investigation is ongoing, with support from Boeing. The AAIB preliminary report did not find any mechanical or maintenance issues. Also, the report has not issued any recommended actions for Boeing or GE, the engine manufacturer.
Amidst the ongoing investigation, pilot groups are rejecting claims of human error. The ICPA has expressed deep disturbance over speculative narratives, particularly the insinuation of pilot suicide, emphasizing that there is absolutely no basis for such a claim. The association views such suggestions as a gross violation of ethical reporting standards and a disservice to the dignity of the profession.
