Air India Plane Crash Report: Unravelling The Tragedy

The Air India plane crash in June 2025 stands as one of the most devastating aviation disasters in recent history. The incident, which occurred moments after take-off from Ahmedabad, India, claimed the lives of 241 people on board and at least 19 on the ground, including British nationals. As the preliminary crash report is released, families in the UK and across the world seek answers. This article explores the findings, expert insights, and the ongoing investigation, providing a comprehensive account for a UK audience.

The Flight and the Immediate Aftermath

On 12 June 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, departed from Ahmedabad airport bound for London Gatwick. The aircraft carried 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Among the passengers were 53 British citizens, making the tragedy especially poignant for families in the UK.

Within seconds of take-off, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a hostel complex at Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College in Ahmedabad. The crash resulted in a massive fireball, destroying several buildings and causing significant casualties on the ground. Dramatic footage and eyewitness accounts described the aircraft flying dangerously low before impact, followed by explosions and thick smoke.

Casualties and Survivors

The crash claimed the lives of 241 people on board—making it the deadliest aviation accident in India since 1996 and the worst in Air India’s recent history. At least 19 people on the ground also lost their lives, with dozens more injured. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover bodies and assist survivors. Only one passenger, a British citizen seated near an emergency exit, survived the crash, escaping through a break in the fuselage.

The UK government responded swiftly, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and King Charles expressing condolences. A crisis team was established to support affected families, and a reception centre was set up at Gatwick Airport.

The Preliminary Crash Report: Key Findings

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India released its preliminary report in July 2025. The findings have raised critical questions about the sequence of events that led to the disaster.

Fuel Cut-Off Switches: The Central Mystery

The report revealed that seconds after take-off, the fuel control switches for both engines were moved from the “run” to the “cut-off” position, causing both engines to lose power. This action is typically performed only after landing, not during flight. Cockpit voice recordings captured one pilot asking the other, “Why did you cut off?” The response was a denial, and the recording does not clarify which pilot made each statement. At the time, the co-pilot was at the controls, with the captain overseeing operations.

The switches were eventually returned to their normal inflight position, which initiated the process of restarting the engines. However, only one engine began to regain power before the aircraft crashed. The aircraft was airborne for less than 40 seconds, reaching an altitude of just 625 feet before losing thrust and descending rapidly.

No Evidence of Bird Strike or External Sabotage

Early speculation suggested a possible bird strike or external sabotage. However, CCTV footage and expert analysis found no evidence of significant bird activity in the flight path. Fuel samples taken from the airport’s bowsers and tanks were tested and found to be normal, ruling out fuel contamination as a cause.

Aircraft and Engine Condition

Both engines were retrieved from the crash site and quarantined for further analysis. The AAIB report stated that, at this stage, there are no recommended actions for Boeing 787-8 or GE GEnx-1B engine operators and manufacturers, indicating no major defect has been identified with the aircraft or its engines.

Expert Insights and Theories

Aviation experts have weighed in on the report’s findings. Some suggest the possibility of a technical malfunction that caused the fuel switches to move to the cut-off position without pilot input. Others have not ruled out human error or deliberate action, though the cockpit voice recordings do not support a clear conclusion.

Sanat Kaul, a respected aviation analyst, noted that the voice recorder makes it clear neither the captain nor the co-pilot claimed responsibility for switching off the fuel. He suggested a possible fault within the aircraft’s systems, though further investigation is needed.

The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has sent a team to assist Indian authorities, given the significant number of British casualties. This collaboration aims to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation, in line with international protocols.

The Human Cost: UK Families and Community Response

The tragedy has deeply affected communities across the UK. Families have mourned loved ones lost in the crash, including entire families from Gloucester and London. Schools, religious groups, and local authorities have come together to support those impacted, with tributes pouring in from across the country.

Prime Minister Starmer described the scenes as “devastating,” while King Charles expressed his “deepest possible sympathy” to families affected by the incident. The Foreign Office has worked closely with Indian counterparts to provide support and repatriation for British victims.

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

The preliminary report stops short of assigning blame, emphasising that the investigation remains ongoing. Key components of the aircraft have been isolated for further analysis, and investigators are reviewing additional evidence, including maintenance records and crew histories.

The final report is expected to take over a year to complete, as authorities seek to understand the full sequence of events and prevent future tragedies. The investigation will examine possible technical faults, human factors, and any systemic issues within Air India’s operations.

Conclusion

The Air India plane crash in June 2025 has left an indelible mark on families in the UK and around the world. As the investigation continues, the preliminary report offers some answers but also deepens the mystery surrounding the tragedy. With the loss of so many lives, including British citizens, the search for truth and accountability remains paramount. The world will watch closely as investigators work to ensure that such a disaster never happens again.

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