What Causes Are Being Investigated for the Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad?
Synopsis
The AAIB is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad. With various probable causes under scrutiny, Minister Murlidhar Mohol assures a timely conclusion to the investigation, in line with ICAO standards. The preliminary report has already raised crucial questions about the flight's technical failures.
Key Takeaways
Comprehensive investigation by AAIB into Air India flight AI-171 crash.
Preliminary report suggests potential technical failures.
Final report due within 12 months per ICAO guidelines.
Emphasis on aviation safety and learning from incidents.
Minister urges caution in drawing conclusions.
New Delhi, Feb 2 (NationPress) The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is thoroughly examining the crash of the Air India flight AI-171 that occurred in Ahmedabad in June of last year. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated in Parliament on Monday that the investigation is being conducted from all perspectives and is intended to be completed efficiently.
"We are exploring all potential causes that led to the accident and are committed to finalizing the investigation within a specified timeframe," the Minister noted in a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha.
On July 12, 2025, AAIB released a preliminary report regarding the incident, which is accessible on their official website www.aaib.gov.in. This report contains factual information based on available evidence at the time and does not present any interim safety recommendations,” he added.
The Air India flight AI 171 tragically crashed mere seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, colliding with a medical college hostel, resulting in the loss of 241 passengers and crew members along with 19 individuals on the ground on June 12, 2025.
The preliminary findings issued by the AAIB on July 12 indicated that both engines of the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner experienced a loss of thrust due to the fuel cut-off switches transitioning from the 'RUN' to the 'CUTOFF' position. However, the cockpit voice recorder revealed that one pilot informed the other that he did not deactivate the fuel control switches. The switches were returned to the RUN position just moments before the aircraft crashed.
According to regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the final report must be submitted within 12 months following the crash.
Earlier, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu emphasized that the AAIB’s report is based on initial findings and advised against drawing conclusions until the final report is made available.
Point of View
The ongoing investigation into the Air India flight AI-171 crash is crucial not only for the families affected but also for the aviation industry at large. We must await the final report from the AAIB to draw informed conclusions, ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future tragedies.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Air India flight AI-171 crash?
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with the AAIB exploring various probable causes, including technical failures related to the aircraft's engines.
When will the final report on the crash be released?
The final report must be submitted within 12 months of the crash, in accordance with ICAO regulations.
How many people were affected by the crash?
The crash resulted in the loss of 241 passengers and crew members on the flight, along with 19 individuals on the ground.
Where can I find the preliminary report on the crash?
The preliminary report is available on the AAIB's official website at www.aaib.gov.in.
What is the role of the AAIB in investigating aviation accidents?
The AAIB is responsible for conducting thorough investigations into aviation accidents to determine their causes and to recommend safety improvements.
