On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India. The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick Airport and crashed approximately 32 seconds after departure, resulting in the loss of 241 lives on board and 19 fatalities on the ground. Only one passenger survived the incident.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India released a preliminary report indicating that both engines lost thrust due to the fuel control switches being moved from the 'RUN' to the 'CUTOFF' position shortly after takeoff. This led to a total loss of engine power, causing the aircraft to descend rapidly and crash into a hostel building near the airport perimeter. The exact cause of the fuel switch movement remains under investigation, with possibilities including human error, mechanical malfunction, or other factors. The AAIB is collaborating with international aviation authorities to determine the precise cause of the accident. A final report is expected within the coming months.
In response to the incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an emergency safety directive mandating immediate additional inspections for Air India's entire Boeing 787-8/9 fleet. These measures aim to ensure the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft during the ongoing investigation. The investigation continues, with authorities working to uncover the factors leading to this tragic event and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.