AI-171 Crash Probe Makes ‘Significant Progress’ After One Year

• AAIB reports major progress in Air India AI-171 crash investigation
• 260 people died when Boeing 787 crashed after take-off from Ahmedabad
• Probe examining flight data, aircraft systems and engine components
• Sole survivor speaks of ongoing psychological and financial struggles

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 13th June: One year after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad that claimed 260 lives, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Friday said it has made significant progress in its investigation into one of India’s worst aviation disasters.

The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed just 32 seconds after take-off from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, killing 241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board, along with 19 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived the accident.

In a statement marking the first anniversary of the crash, the AAIB said its investigation team has conducted an extensive examination of all technical, operational, organisational and human factors associated with the accident.

The bureau said the probe has been supported by accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject-matter experts from various organisations.

“Significant progress has been made in the examination and analysis of aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components, maintenance and operational records, and other evidence relevant to the investigation,” the statement said.

The AAIB’s preliminary report, released in July 2025, revealed that both engine fuel control switches moved from the “RUN” position to “CUTOFF” moments before the crash. However, the report did not establish what caused the switches to move and did not assign responsibility to any individual or organisation.

The investigation has attracted global attention because of its potential implications for airline safety and operations involving Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft worldwide.

According to the AAIB, evidence collected so far is being analysed through a comprehensive and integrated process. Additional technical assessments and specialist examinations will continue wherever necessary to ensure that conclusions are based on verified evidence and scientific analysis.

The bureau reiterated that the objective of the investigation is to improve aviation safety by identifying lessons and issuing recommendations rather than determining blame or legal liability.

“The AAIB remains firmly committed to conducting a thorough, independent, objective and evidence-based investigation,” it said, adding that the final report will be released after completion of all investigative procedures and international review requirements.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu also paid tribute to the victims on the anniversary of the tragedy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a thorough investigation.

“Today, as we mark one year since the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 accident, we remember with profound sorrow those who lost their lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones,” the minister said in a post on X.

Meanwhile, Viswashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the crash, spoke about the continuing challenges he faces a year after the tragedy.

In an interview with PTI, Ramesh said he remains grateful to be alive but continues to struggle physically, psychologically and financially. He said sleep disturbances, anxiety and painful memories continue to affect his daily life.

“People see that I’ve survived, but they don’t always see the challenges that continue behind closed doors,” he said.

The final investigation report is expected to provide crucial answers about the circumstances that led to the catastrophic crash and help strengthen aviation safety standards in India and globally.