One month after the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171, speculation continues to swirl as crucial details remain unclear despite the release of a preliminary investigation report.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner went down less than a minute after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 241 passengers and crew, along with 19 people on the ground. Miraculously, one passenger survived.
India’s Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its 15-page preliminary report over the weekend, fulfilling international protocol that requires a fact-based update within 30 days of an aviation disaster. But rather than silencing speculation, the report has intensified it.
The report notes that two engine fuel cut-off switches were inexplicably moved to the “cut-off” position seconds after take-off effectively starving the engines of fuel. Though the engines were restarted, it was too late to regain control.
A key detail raising eyebrows is the recorded exchange between the pilots. One is heard asking, “Why did you cut off?” to which the other responds, “I did not do so.” Yet the report does not clarify which pilot said what, nor does it include a full transcript from the cockpit voice recorder.
Aviation experts have criticized the AAIB for being selective in its disclosures, and the absence of definitive conclusions has led to a flood of theories from pilot error to possible mechanical malfunction or even foul play.
Although American interests are involved given that Boeing and GE Aerospace are U.S.-based India is leading the probe.
