Fuel Cutoff Blamed for Fatal Air India Crash, Investigators Say
Engines Lost Power Moments After Take‑Off
A preliminary probe into last month’s Air India Flight 171 disaster indicates both engines lost fuel supply seconds into departure, causing the Boeing 787‑8 to plunge into a college dormitory near Ahmedabad’s airport and kill 260 people on board and on the ground. Only one passenger survived.
Fuel Switches Moved to ‘Cutoff’ Position
Data recovered from the jet’s flight recorders shows the aircraft reached about 180 knots when cockpit fuel‑control switches for the left and right engines were flipped from RUN to CUTOFF one second apart, according to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). Cockpit audio captures one pilot questioning the other: “Why did you cut off?” The response: “I didn’t.”
The switches were immediately reset to RUN, triggering an automatic relight sequence, but thrust did not return before impact.
Safety Devices Couldn’t Stop Descent
Airport surveillance footage confirmed deployment of the Ram Air Turbine, an emergency power source, as the jet began losing altitude beyond the runway perimeter. A frantic “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday” call was transmitted moments before radio contact ceased.
Aircraft and Crew Details
- Captain: 56 years old, 15,000+ flight hours
- First Officer: 32 years old, 3,400+ hours
- Aircraft: Boeing 787‑8, engines installed March 26 (left) and May 1 (right)
- Weight, fuel quality, flap and gear settings: All within normal limits, investigators found
The Dreamliner departed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 9:10 a.m. on June 12 bound for London Gatwick with 242 passengers and crew representing India, the U.K., Portugal, and Canada.
Ground Casualties and Damage
The aircraft struck a hostel at BJ Medical College and Hospital, claiming additional lives and amplifying the final death toll to 260.
Accidental or Intentional?
AAIB officials noted the fuel cut‑off switches are shielded by locking guards, making inadvertent activation “extremely rare.” Investigators have not determined whether mechanical failure, human error, or deliberate action caused the switch movement.
Airline and Regulatory Response
Air India acknowledged receipt of the preliminary findings and pledged full cooperation. “We stand in solidarity with the families of those affected,” the carrier wrote on X, adding it will provide ongoing assistance.
A comprehensive final report, including potential safety recommendations, is expected within the year.
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