Breakthrough in Air India Flight AI 171 Crash Investigation

A major breakthrough has been achieved in the investigation of the Air India Flight AI 171 crash. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has successfully recovered and downloaded critical data from the damaged black boxes—the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)—from the June 12 crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that claimed 275 lives, including 241 onboard and 34 on the ground.

Despite initial concerns over damage to the black boxes, the AAIB safely extracted the Crash Protection Module and memory module, transporting both devices securely to its Delhi lab. Data extraction began immediately and was completed within 24 hours. The CVR data is expected to provide vital insight into cockpit conversations and crew responses, while the FDR offers detailed flight parameters including altitude, airspeed, and engine performance.

Flight AI 171 crashed just 36 seconds after takeoff at 1:39 PM. The investigation is focusing on the brief window before the crash, especially the “mayday” messages reportedly sent by Captain Sabharwal, who may have indicated loss of power and thrust. This information could pinpoint whether engine failure or system-wide hydraulic/electronic malfunctions caused the accident. Notably, the aircraft had recently undergone regular safety checks, including a right engine replacement less than four months prior.

In light of the tragedy, a parliamentary committee is set to convene next week to address civil aviation safety and maintenance protocols. Government officials, airline representatives, and Boeing executives are expected to testify as the probe advances.

The AAIB continues a thorough analysis to reconstruct the sequence of events to improve future aviation safety.