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Air India Flight AI-171 crash investigation progresses with international oversight

Air India Flight AI-171 crash investigation progresses with international oversight
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The crash of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner traveling from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, has left families in mourning and the aviation community searching for answers. The accident occurred shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 241 people onboard and 39 on the ground.

At 13:38 local time, the aircraft departed Ahmedabad Airport but issued a Mayday call seconds later. By 13:39, it had crashed into BJ Medical College in Meghaninagar. Initial investigations by India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ruled out a bird strike and center-of-gravity issues as causes. Inspections were ordered for all Boeing Dreamliners in the fleet.

Recovery operations began immediately but faced concerns about potential evidence tampering. Authorities confirmed that both black boxes were recovered by June 16. Subsequent inspections revealed no major safety deficiencies in other Air India Dreamliners.

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On June 19, it was disclosed that the aircraft had undergone significant maintenance checks recently with no reported issues prior to the flight. Although media speculated about sending black boxes abroad for data recovery, officials clarified that this decision had not been made yet.

By June 24, data from both black boxes was successfully downloaded with assistance from India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the United States' National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Analysis began promptly.

India's Civil Aviation Minister stated on June 29 that simultaneous engine shutdowns are unprecedented and announced international oversight by accepting an observer from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

A preliminary report is expected within 30 days per ICAO standards. The investigation aims to uncover whether mechanical failure, fuel system malfunction, or sabotage contributed to this tragic event.

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