Indian authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the devastating crash of Air India Flight 171, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport on June 12, killing at least 260 passengers and crew, with only one survivor. Civil Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol indicated that investigators are meticulously evaluating all potential causes of the incident, including the possibility of sabotage.
The Aviation Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation with assistance from teams in the United States and the United Kingdom. They are analyzing the aircraft’s black boxes—specifically the voice and data recorders—although no conclusions have been drawn yet. Mohol noted the significance of reviewing various sources of information, including CCTV footage, maintenance records, and environmental conditions at the time of the accident.
This is notably the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, making the investigation particularly crucial. The minister described the crash as a “rare case,” referring to the unusual circumstances surrounding it, particularly considerations of dual-engine failure—a scenario not previously recorded.
A comprehensive report on the findings is expected to be released within three months, which will help clarify the reasons behind the crash, whether they involve an engine malfunction, fuel supply issues, or other factors.
As the investigation progresses, it’s a reminder of the aviation industry’s commitment to safety and thoroughness in analyzing accidents to ensure that lessons learned can prevent similar tragedies in the future.