AAIB Report
National New: Air India flight AI171, a Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft flying from Ahmedabad to London, crashed on June 12, killing 241 passengers and crew members on board and 30 people on the ground. After this tragic accident, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its preliminary report, which has revealed several major technical flaws.
According to the 15-page report of AAIB, the fuel switches of both the engines suddenly turned off mid-air during the flight, which stopped the supply of fuel to the engines and caused their thrust to disappear. This is believed to be the main cause of the accident. Black box data showed that the switch was later brought back to the 'run' position, but only engine 1 was partially restored, while engine 2 could not be started.
The report also confirmed that the ram air turbine (RAT) had deployed shortly after takeoff, indicating that the plane's primary power supply had failed. The plane began losing altitude rapidly after taking off from the runway and crashed before it could cross the airport's perimeter wall.
Hours after the report was released, Boeing said in a statement that it would fully cooperate with the investigation and stand with its customers. Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg spoke to Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran and assured cooperation. He also expressed deep condolences to the victims and their families. Boeing also clarified that it will continue to rely on AAIB to share information under Article 13 of the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Air India also confirmed receipt of the report and said that it is working closely with all stakeholders, regulators, and investigating agencies. The Tata Group-owned airline expresses its deepest condolences and support to the bereaved families. This accident not only points to a technical failure but also underlines the serious need for aviation safety and systemic vigilance.
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