Air India AI171 Crash: Key Takeaways from the AAIB Preliminary Report

On June 12, 2025, a heartbreaking tragedy shook India and the world. Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flying from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed just seconds after take-off. All 260 people on board, including passengers, crew members, and some individuals on the ground, lost their lives.

Exactly a month later, on July 12, 2025, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its 15-page preliminary report. While it doesn’t provide all the answers, the report gives us the first clear picture of what happened during those crucial 40 seconds. Let’s break down the key findings in simple terms.

What Happened That Day?

The aircraft took off from Ahmedabad airport at 13:38 IST. Everything seemed normal—weather conditions were good, the aircraft was loaded correctly, and there were no signs of external issues like bird activity or poor visibility.

But just 40 seconds into the flight, something went terribly wrong. Both engines suddenly lost power. According to the report, the fuel control switches for both engines somehow changed from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ almost simultaneously. This move cut off the fuel supply and caused the engines to shut down.

This type of failure is incredibly rare, especially just seconds after take-off.

Fuel Switches: The Core of the Mystery

So, what are fuel control switches? These switches manage the flow of fuel to an aircraft’s engines. Normally, they are set to ‘RUN’ during flight. Switching them to ‘CUTOFF’ stops the fuel supply - something that’s only done when shutting down the engines intentionally on the ground.
According to aviation experts and the AAIB, these switches require a firm and deliberate motion to operate. They are located under the thrust levers and are not easy to move by accident. That’s what makes this incident so puzzling.

What Did the Pilots Say?

The cockpit voice recorder captured a brief and chilling exchange between the two pilots.
One asked, “Why did you cut off?”
The other responded, “I did not.”
That’s it. The report does not identify which pilot said what. But it clearly shows that the crew was just as shocked by the situation as anyone else.

What Happened After the Engines Shut Down?

Once both engines lost power, the aircraft became a glider. At this point, the emergency system known as the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) was deployed automatically. This system helps generate power in critical situations when engines aren’t working.

The pilots tried to restart the engines. They switched both fuel levers back to ‘RUN’. Engine 1 started to show signs of recovery. But engine 2 didn’t respond in time.

Just 32-40 seconds after takeoff, the plane crashed into a hostel complex near the airport perimeter. The aircraft was flying at a speed of 180 knots and had only reached an altitude of 625 feet, barely enough to gain control or glide safely.

Important Technical Details

The AAIB made it clear that any outside factors didn’t cause the accident. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Fuel quality: Checked and found to be normal
2. Weather: Clear skies, good visibility, and light winds
3. Bird activity: None reported
4. Weight and balance: Within safe limits
5. Dangerous goods on board: None
6. Flap setting: 5 degrees - standard for takeoff
7. Landing gear: Down as expected
8. Pilot credentials: Both were fit, well-rested, and experienced

One strange detail in the report is that while the thrust levers were found at idle after the crash, data from the black box showed that takeoff thrust was engaged. This raises questions about a possible disconnect or system error.

What About the Black Boxes?

The cockpit voice recorder gave some insight into what the pilots were saying, but the flight data recorder (FDR) was badly damaged. It couldn’t be read using normal methods. This has made it harder for investigators to understand the full picture.

Still, the AAIB confirmed that the pilots attempted an emergency relight and even issued a mayday call just seconds before impact.

No Sign of Sabotage, But Some Concerns

So far, there is no evidence of foul play or sabotage. However, the report did mention something concerning. The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) had previously issued an advisory about a potential design flaw related to the fuel switches. This advisory hadn’t been addressed by Air India before the crash.

While this doesn’t mean it caused the crash, it’s something investigators will look at closely in the next stages.

What Are Air India and Boeing Saying?

Air India has expressed deep condolences to the families of those lost and promised full cooperation with the investigation. They’ve also said they are supporting affected families and working closely with authorities.

Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, issued a brief statement saying they’re providing technical assistance and are committed to helping the AAIB with their investigation.

Still Many Questions Left Unanswered

This report gives us a better understanding of what happened, but it doesn’t tell us why. The biggest question remains: Why did the fuel switches move to ‘CUTOFF’?
Was it a human error?
Was it a mechanical or electrical fault?
Could it be related to software or the aircraft’s automated systems?
At this point, we don’t know. The AAIB has not placed blame on any individual or system yet. The investigation continues.

Also, no safety warnings or flight restrictions have been issued yet for other Boeing 787-8 aircraft or GE GEnx-1B engines, which are used widely around the world.

Timeline of Key Events

Here’s a quick look at the crucial moments from takeoff to crash:
13:38:00 - Aircraft lifts off from Ahmedabad
13:38:42 - Both engines’ fuel switches move to 'CUTOFF'
13:38:52 - Engine 1 relight attempt begins
13:38:56 - Engine 2 relight attempt
13:39:00 - RAT deploys, aircraft begins rapid descent
13:39:11 - FDR stops recording – crash is seconds away

Final Thoughts

The crash of Air India AI171 is one of the most shocking air disasters in recent times. A modern aircraft, experienced pilots, and good weather - yet something went fatally wrong just seconds after takeoff.

The AAIB’s preliminary report is a step forward, but the aviation community - and grieving families - deserve clear answers. As the investigation continues, everyone hopes the final report will offer more clarity and lead to safety improvements that could prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again.