What Are the Possible Causes Behind the Air India Ahmedabad Crash?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Investigation into the 2005 Air India Ahmedabad crash is ongoing.
- Over 241 lives were lost in the tragic accident.
- The AAIB is responsible for the investigation following aviation regulations.
- A preliminary report has been released but the final findings are yet to come.
- Safety oversight mechanisms are in place to monitor compliance in aviation.
New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) The investigation into all potential causes of the tragic Air India accident on June 12, 2005, in Ahmedabad—resulting in the loss of more than 241 lives on board and numerous others on the ground—is actively underway. A comprehensive report will be disclosed upon the investigation's conclusion, as stated by the government in Parliament on Thursday.
Flight AI171 of Air India tragically crashed mere seconds after takeoff, colliding with a medical college hostel and claiming the lives of 241 individuals, including passengers and crew, as well as additional casualties on ground.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, informed the Lok Sabha that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the inquiry in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2025. The investigation remains ongoing.
A preliminary report issued by the AAIB is now accessible on their official site, containing factual data based on the evidence available at that stage.
The minister reiterated, “All possible causes of the accident are under investigation. The final report will be available post-investigation.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has set up a methodical safety oversight framework to ensure compliance with regulations and Civil Aviation Requirements, covering all aircraft and airport operators, he added.
According to the preliminary report from the AAIB, both engines experienced a loss of thrust after the fuel cut-off switches transitioned from the ‘RUN’ to the ‘CUTOFF’ position. However, cockpit voice recordings indicated that one pilot informed the other he had not deactivated the fuel control switches. The switches were subsequently restored to the RUN position just prior to the crash.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu advised against jumping to conclusions until the final report is published.