Air India Crash: No Sabotage or Bird Strike Found
The preliminary report into the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash has ruled out sabotage or bird strike as causes of the accident. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, killing 241 people onboard and 19 on the ground. The sole survivor, a British national, remains under medical care.
Dual Engine Shutdown Confirmed
According to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), both engine fuel control switches were found in the CUTOFF position shortly after the plane took off, leading to a complete loss of thrust. The aircraft was just 625 feet above ground level when the shutdown occurred. The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking, “Did you cut off the fuel?” to which the other replied, “I didn’t.” The exact reason for the switch movement—whether accidental or mechanical—is still under investigation.
Crash Impact and Rescue Efforts
The aircraft collided with a student hostel at B.J. Medical College in Ahmedabad. In addition to the 241 fatalities onboard, 19 lives were lost on the ground, and over 60 people sustained injuries. Emergency responders managed to rescue several students and staff from the debris, while the sole surviving passenger was found unconscious but alive amid the wreckage.
Investigation and Safety Checks
The AAIB, with assistance from international aviation experts, is focusing on the design and positioning of the engine fuel switches, which are built with protective features to prevent accidental activation. Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered a complete inspection of all Air India Boeing 787 aircraft, specifically checking for issues related to fuel systems and pilot controls.
Experts Say Dual Shutdown Extremely Rare
Aviation experts stress that a dual engine shutdown at low altitude is extremely rare and highly dangerous. They believe pilot error or a technical failure may have occurred, but they have confidently ruled out sabotage or bird strike as causes. The final report will be released after further analysis of flight data and mechanical systems.
