Air India Responds After Crash Report Reveals Fuel Cutoff

Air India has released a formal statement following the publication of a preliminary investigation report into the tragic crash of flight AI171, which claimed 241 lives. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released initial findings that shed light on what caused the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to plummet shortly after takeoff on June 12.

The report points to cockpit confusion, noting that fuel control switches were turned to the ‘cutoff’ position just seconds after takeoff—causing the engines to lose power.

The aircraft, en route from Ahmedabad to London, sent out a Mayday call moments before impact. Investigators said the plane began losing thrust within seconds of becoming airborne.

One of the most alarming details comes from the cockpit voice recorder. One pilot is heard asking, "Why did you cut off the fuel?" to which the other replied that he had not done so.

In its statement, Air India said it had received the report from the AAIB and remains "fully committed to providing support." The airline emphasized its close collaboration with regulators and stakeholders as the investigation continues.

“Air India continues to fully cooperate with the AAIB and other authorities as their investigation progresses,” the airline said. “However, given the active nature of the investigation, we are unable to comment on specific details and refer all such enquiries to the AAIB.”

The airline also expressed condolences to those affected by the disaster:
“We continue to mourn the loss, and stand in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI171 accident.”

A Tragic Day for India

The crash not only left the nation in shock but caused unimaginable loss at BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad. The aircraft crashed into the undergraduate hostel building minutes after takeoff, killing 33 medical students.

Only one passenger survived the crash, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in recent Indian history.

As the investigation unfolds, many are left searching for answers—and hoping that new safety measures will prevent future tragedies.

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