Is the Investigation into the Air India Plane Crash Concluded?
Synopsis
The AAIB has confirmed that the investigation into the Air India Flight AI-171 crash is ongoing. Misleading reports claiming otherwise have sparked speculation. The AAIB emphasizes its commitment to thoroughness and transparency in its findings.
Key Takeaways
AAIB confirms investigation is ongoing.
No conclusions drawn yet.
Preliminary Report highlights thrust loss.
Media urged to avoid speculation.
AAIB adheres to international investigation standards.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has firmly stated that any claims about the finalization of the investigation into the Air India Flight AI-171 incident are false and based on speculation. The AAIB emphasized, “The investigation is ongoing, and no definitive conclusions have been drawn.”
The earlier released Preliminary Report presented factual information as it stood at that time. The comprehensive Final Investigation Report, which will include conclusions and safety recommendations, is set for publication once the investigation is completed, adhering to international standards, according to the statement.
The AAIB conducts its investigations in strict compliance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2025, and India’s commitments under ICAO Annex 13. These investigations are technical, evidence-based processes aimed at identifying root causes and improving safety.
Furthermore, the AAIB has called on media outlets to practice caution and refrain from jumping to conclusions, as unverified news can cause unnecessary public concern and compromise the integrity of a professional investigation.
The AAIB remains dedicated to transparency, procedural integrity, and maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.
Earlier this month, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol informed the Rajya Sabha that the AAIB is examining the Air India Flight AI-171 crash that occurred in Ahmedabad last June from all perspectives and intends to conclude the investigation promptly.
“All potential causes of the accident are being examined, and endeavors are underway to finish the investigation in a timely manner,” the Minister stated in a written response within the house, in line with ICAO guidelines.
The tragic incident involved Air India flight AI-171 crashing mere seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport into a hostel building, resulting in the loss of 241 lives on board and an additional 19 casualties on the ground on June 12, 2025.
A preliminary report issued by the AAIB on July 12 indicated that both engines of the ill-fated Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner experienced a loss of thrust after the fuel cut-off switches were inadvertently moved from the ‘RUN’ to the ‘CUTOFF’ position. However, insights from the cockpit voice recorder revealed that one pilot informed his colleague he did not switch off the fuel control switches. The fuel switches were subsequently returned to the RUN position just moments before the aircraft crashed.
Point of View
It’s imperative to highlight the importance of factual reporting in sensitive matters such as aviation accidents. The AAIB's commitment to transparency and thorough investigation is commendable. We encourage the media to refrain from speculation and allow the investigation to unfold professionally.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the Air India Flight AI-171 investigation?
The AAIB has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and no final conclusions have been reached yet.
What caused the Air India Flight AI-171 crash?
Preliminary findings suggest a loss of thrust in both engines due to fuel cut-off switches being turned off.
How does the AAIB conduct its investigations?
The AAIB follows strict international norms and rules to ensure a thorough, evidence-based investigation.
Why is media speculation harmful?
Speculation can cause unnecessary public anxiety and undermine the integrity of ongoing investigations.
What happened during the AI-171 crash?
The flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in significant loss of life both on board and on the ground.
