Air India, Boeing Express Grief; Support Investigation After Ahmedabad Crash Findings

Hours after the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its initial findings on the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, both Air India and Boeing issued statements reaffirming their commitment to the ongoing investigation and offering condolences to the victims’ families.

The AAIB’s preliminary report revealed that the engine fuel control switches on the Boeing 787-8 aircraft moved from the ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ position just three seconds after takeoff, leading to a fatal failure.

Tragically, the aircraft crashed 34 seconds after takeoff on 12 June, striking a densely populated area and colliding with a doctors’ hostel building before erupting in flames.

A total of 275 people, including passengers, crew, and people on the ground, lost their lives.

Taking to X, Air India posted, “Air India stands in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI171 accident. We continue to mourn the loss and are fully committed to providing support during this difficult time.”

The airline confirmed receipt of the AAIB’s initial report and noted, “Air India is working closely with stakeholders, including regulators. We continue to fully cooperate with the AAIB and other authorities as their investigation progresses.”

Boeing expresses condolences

Boeing also issued a statement expressing its condolences and support for the investigation.

The company stated, “Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad.”

Boeing added that it would defer to the AAIB for any official updates, in line with international aviation investigation guidelines under ICAO Annex 13.

The AAIB’s 15-page report detailed how both fuel control switches on Air India Flight 171 turned off in rapid succession, leading to a simultaneous engine shutdown.

Cockpit voice recordings captured a moment of confusion between the pilots. One asked, “Why did you cut off?” to which the other replied, “I did not do so.”

The report confirmed that the crash occurred roughly 30 seconds after lift-off. At this stage, no safety advisories have been issued for Boeing 787-8 aircraft or their GE GEnx-1B engines.

It also noted that in 2018, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a bulletin warning of a possible issue with the fuel control switch locking feature.
However, since the advisory was non-mandatory, Air India did not conduct the inspection.

Weather conditions remained normal at the time, and the aircraft took off within approved weight limits.

The crash led to the deaths of nearly all on board, 241 of the 242 passengers and crew, as well as several people on the ground, marking one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in recent years.

Also Read: Confusion In Cockpit Led To Air India Crash Seconds After Takeoff: Probe