seniorspectrumnewspaper – The preliminary report into the crash of Air India Flight 171 has revealed critical cockpit errors moments after takeoff. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India released its initial findings on the June 12 crash near Ahmedabad. The tragedy involved a Boeing 787 and resulted in 260 fatalities.
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Flight data shows that just three seconds after takeoff, the fuel cutoff switches for both engines moved from “Run” to “Cutoff.” Cockpit voice recordings captured one pilot asking, “why did he cut off?” The co-pilot, who was flying the aircraft, denied doing so. This exchange pointed to confusion and a possible technical or procedural failure during a critical phase of flight.
Ten seconds after the cutoff, the flight crew attempted to restore power by resetting the fuel switches. Engine 1 was switched back to “Run,” followed by engine 2 four seconds later. While the engines began an automatic relight sequence, the aircraft had already lost significant altitude. Engine 1 showed signs of recovery, but engine 2 could not regain power in time.
The report suggests that the pilots acted quickly to correct the issue, but the rapid loss of thrust proved too much to recover from. The flight crashed shortly after, leaving no survivors. Investigators have ruled out other potential causes such as weather conditions, bird strikes, or contaminated fuel. The AAIB is focusing on two main areas: potential human error and a known mechanical issue with the fuel switch mechanism. The final report is expected next year.
Investigators Probe Switch Design and Missed Safety Checks
The fuel cutoff switches involved in the crash require deliberate force to operate, raising concerns about how they moved accidentally. The report cites a 2018 bulletin issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which warned about a potential failure in the switches’ locking mechanism.
Although the FAA recommended inspections, it did not mandate them. Air India admitted it chose not to carry out the suggested checks. Investigators are now scrutinizing this decision as they examine whether proactive safety measures could have prevented the crash. The AAIB’s findings have sparked growing public calls for accountability. Families of the victims are demanding answers about how such a catastrophic failure occurred during a routine flight and why Air India ignored known technical risks.
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Experts believe the crash could expose broader issues in maintenance compliance and pilot training protocols. The investigation highlights the need for clear safety guidance and better enforcement of even non-mandatory advisories when potential lives are at risk. As the final report develops, aviation regulators and airlines may need to revisit standards for both cockpit procedures and mechanical inspections. The tragedy of Flight 171 underscores the importance of addressing even low-probability technical risks before they lead to devastating consequences.
