Ahmedabad Dreamliner Crash Probe Points to Engine Failure
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted its preliminary findings into the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, which went down shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12. The report, based on early analysis of flight and cockpit data, points toward a rare and catastrophic dual-engine failure as the likely cause of the crash that claimed 260 lives.
Engine Failure
According to officials, evidence suggests that both engines of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner failed almost simultaneously within seconds of liftoff. Surveillance footage and witness accounts appear to confirm deployment of the aircraft’s ram air turbine (RAT), a device designed to restore minimal power in case of total system failure. Cockpit voice recordings include a chilling “mayday” call referencing “thrust not achieved,” further indicating that the engines did not respond as expected during ascent.
Black Box Data
Both the flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) were recovered and their memory units successfully accessed on June 25. Analysts are currently focusing on key indicators such as engine thrust levels, fuel control settings, and the status of onboard power systems. Simulations recreating the failure scenario are underway, aiming to determine whether mechanical malfunction, software errors, or human factors played a decisive role.
Crash Timeline
Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed approximately 30 seconds after takeoff. The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, carried 241 passengers and crew, along with 19 individuals on the ground who also perished. Only one passenger survived and remains in intensive care. The rapid and steep descent into a residential area has triggered nationwide scrutiny of airline safety protocols and oversight.
Institutional Response
In response to public outcry, a parliamentary committee has pressed the Ministry of Civil Aviation for greater transparency and accountability. Lawmakers have demanded a thorough audit of Air India’s fleet and operational practices. Meanwhile, Air India, while expressing grief over the tragedy, reiterated the Dreamliner’s reputation as one of the safest long-range aircraft, citing over 1,000 units in service worldwide. However, it has scaled back some international routes pending further assessments.
