On the first anniversary of the Air India Flight AI171 disaster, aircraft manufacturer Boeing issued an official statement expressing condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragedy. The company said its thoughts remain with the victims' families, Air India, and everyone affected by the crash, while reaffirming its continued cooperation with India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) as the investigation progresses.
The statement comes a year after one of India's deadliest aviation disasters. On June 12, 2025, the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner departed from Ahmedabad but crashed just 32 seconds after take-off into a student hostel at BJ Medical College. The impact killed 260 people, including 241 passengers and crew members on board and 19 people on the ground.
Investigators examining the wreckage uncovered a critical detail from the aircraft's flight data. Preliminary findings indicated that both engine fuel control switches moved to the cut-off position only seconds after take-off, causing fuel supply to both engines to stop. Cockpit voice recordings reportedly captured one pilot questioning why the fuel had been cut off, while the other pilot denied operating the switches.
A year later, investigators are still working to determine whether the movement of the switches resulted from inadvertent human action or a highly unusual mechanical malfunction. The unresolved question has led to significant debate within the aviation community. Pilot associations have called for a transparent and independently monitored investigation, arguing that no conclusions should be reached before the final report is completed.
The AAIB continues to analyse flight recorder data, aircraft systems, engine components, maintenance records, and other evidence. Officials have emphasised that the investigation remains evidence-based and that no final determination regarding the cause of the crash has yet been made.
As the anniversary is observed, families of the victims are expected to gather at the crash site to pay tribute to those who lost their lives. Relatives and well-wishers will participate in memorial events, including a candlelight march, to honour the memory of the 260 victims and remember a tragedy that continues to leave unanswered questions one year later.
