India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has firmly stated that the probe into the devastating Air India Flight AI-171 crash has not concluded and that reports suggesting a final cause remain speculative. The clarification comes after international media claims hinted at a possible intentional action linked to the aircraft’s fuel switches. Officials emphasised that investigators continue to analyse technical data and cockpit recordings before reaching any conclusions about the tragedy that killed 260 people near Ahmedabad in 2025.
The agency stressed that aviation accident investigations follow international protocols and take time to ensure accuracy. It urged the public to avoid relying on unverified claims while experts continue to examine mechanical systems, human factors, and flight data.
Air India AI-171 Crash: What Did AAIB Say About The Air India Crash Investigation?
The AAIB directly addressed recent speculation about the probe’s status. Officials said, “The investigation is still in progress. No conclusions have been reached.” The agency explained that the final report will include confirmed findings and safety recommendations only after the full investigation concludes.
Authorities also highlighted that preliminary findings do not represent the final cause. Aviation experts continue to review multiple scenarios, including possible mechanical faults, cockpit actions, and operational factors that could have contributed to the disaster.
What Did The Italian Report Claim About AI-171 Crash Probe?
The controversy intensified after an Italian newspaper cited unnamed Western aviation sources and suggested that investigators had ruled out technical defects. According to that report, the crash may have occurred after the aircraft’s fuel switches were intentionally turned off during the flight.
The AAIB dismissed these claims as premature and speculative. Officials said they have not issued any final findings or confirmed any specific cause. They reiterated that investigators will publish official conclusions only after completing the comprehensive analysis required under international aviation standards.
Air India AI-171 Crash: What Happened During The Air India Flight AI-171 Crash Near Ahmedabad?
Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The aircraft lost thrust from both engines within seconds of departure and crashed into a nearby medical student hostel. The disaster killed 260 people, including 241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board.
Investigators’ preliminary report described the aircraft’s final moments. It revealed that the fuel cutoff switches moved from the ‘RUN’ position to the ‘CUTOFF’ position almost simultaneously. Cockpit voice recordings captured a confusing exchange between the pilots, with one asking, “Why did you cut off?” and the other replying, “I did not do so.”
However, the report did not explain why the switches moved or what triggered the sudden loss of engine power.
Air India AI-171 Crash: What Did The Preliminary Report Reveal About Fuel Switch Mystery?
The preliminary investigation detailed the timeline of events but stopped short of assigning blame. It described how the engines lost fuel supply almost immediately after takeoff, leading to a rapid drop in thrust. Investigators confirmed that one pilot questioned the switch movement while the other denied taking action.
Despite these findings, the AAIB clarified that the mystery behind the simultaneous dual-engine failure remains unresolved. Experts continue to examine whether mechanical malfunction, human error, or another factor caused the switches to change position.
Air India AI-171 Crash: When Will The Final Air India AI-171 Crash Report Be Released?
Officials confirmed that the final investigation report will be released only after completing detailed analysis and safety reviews. They noted that aviation crash probes often take months or years because investigators must verify every technical and operational detail.
Until then, authorities have urged the public and media to rely only on official updates. The AAIB said the final report will present verified conclusions and recommendations to improve aviation safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
