A preliminary investigation into the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12, 2025, has identified a sudden fuel cutoff as the primary cause of the disaster. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of 260 lives, including 241 passengers and 19 individuals on the ground.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau of India reported that both engine fuel cutoff switches were unexpectedly moved from the “run” to the “cutoff” position within seconds of each other after takeoff. This action led to an immediate loss of engine power, causing the aircraft to descend rapidly and crash into a medical college complex near Ahmedabad.
Cockpit voice recordings revealed confusion among the flight crew regarding the fuel cutoff, with one pilot questioning the other about the action, to which the latter denied responsibility. The investigation is focusing on determining whether this was a result of mechanical failure or human error.
The AAIB’s preliminary report indicates no immediate fault with Boeing or GE Aerospace, the engine manufacturer. The investigation continues, with a final report expected within a year. Air India has pledged full cooperation with the authorities and has initiated comprehensive checks on its Boeing 787 fleet to prevent future incidents.
This incident marks India’s deadliest air disaster in nearly three decades and the first fatal crash involving a Dreamliner. The aviation community remains vigilant as investigations proceed to uncover the exact cause of this tragic event.
Read the Preliminary Report in Full
