The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's preliminary report on the Air India Flight 171 crash has sparked intense debate, with some media outlets quick to point fingers at pilot error. However, a careful examination of the 15-page AAIB report reveals technical evidence that should make us pause before rushing to judgment against the flight crew.

Detailed Coverage: Air India AI171 Tragedy

Facts speak louder than speculation

On June 12, 2025, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating flight AI171 crashed approximately thirty seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport, killing 241 of 242 people aboard and 19 on the ground. The AAIB preliminary report found that both engine fuel control switches transitioned from "RUN" to "CUTOFF" position one after another with a time gap of 1 second.

In the cockpit voice recording, one pilot asked the other "why did you cutoff," and the second pilot responded that he had not. This exchange alone should give us pause about attributing the disaster solely to deliberate pilot action.

Technical evidence points elsewhere

Several critical technical factors challenge the simple pilot error narrative:

* The switch design issue: The US Federal Aviation Administration had issued Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) No. NM-18-33 on December 17, 2018, warning of the potential disengagement of the fuel control switch locking feature. According to Air India information, the proposed inspections were not performed since the SAIB was advisory and not obligatory.

This is crucial. The FAA had specifically identified a potential problem with these switches seven years ago, yet the airline was not required to inspect them because the advisory was not mandatory.

© Mathrubhumi English