A devastating crash involving an Air India 787 on June 12, 2025, near Ahmedabad Airport has left the aviation world in shock. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) now treats the disaster as a possible criminal act, focusing on deliberate fuel cutoff as the cause. This shift in the investigation’s direction raises urgent questions about airline safety, pilot screening, and the future of international travel.
The crash claimed the lives of 241 people onboard and 19 on the ground, making it one of the deadliest air disasters in India’s history. The Air India 787, a Boeing 787-8 model, was operating Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick when tragedy struck just seconds after takeoff. According to the AAIB’s preliminary report, the fuel cutoff switches for both engines were moved from “RUN” to “CUTOFF” about three seconds after liftoff. This action caused both engines to fail. Although the switches were turned back on within 14 seconds, the aircraft was already too low to recover, resulting in the fatal crash.

Key Evidence and Investigation Details
The AAIB’s investigation, supported by the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), quickly ruled out mechanical failure. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the fuel cutoff switches did not fail on their own. Instead, the switches were manually operated, pointing to human intervention. The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) captured a tense exchange between the pilots. One pilot asked, “Why did you cut off the fuel?” while the other denied doing it. This recording, along with data from the enhanced airborne flight recorders (EAFR), led investigators to consider the possibility of intentional sabotage.
Greg Feith, a respected safety expert and former NTSB investigator, explained, “Dual-engine fuel cutoff is extremely rare and almost impossible to happen by accident. The evidence points to deliberate action.” The Wall Street Journal reported that sources close to the investigation believe the captain may have intentionally shut off the fuel, causing panic in the cockpit.
Immediate Response and Support for Families
Air India responded quickly to the tragedy. The airline set up assistance centers at Ahmedabad and Mumbai airports, providing support to over 400 family members of the victims. Caregivers helped families with travel, accommodation, and the difficult process of identifying and repatriating loved ones’ remains. Air India also paused affected routes and increased technical inspections of its Boeing 787 fleet as a safety measure.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, ordered extra inspections and maintenance checks on all Boeing 787 aircraft operated by Indian airlines. These checks focused on fuel systems and engine controls, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future. The DGCA’s actions reflect a broader push for safety and accountability in the wake of the crash.
International Cooperation and Ongoing Investigation
The AAIB leads the investigation, but international agencies play a key role. The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the US NTSB provide technical expertise, while the FAA stands ready to assist. Both EAFRs were recovered by June 16, and data was retrieved by June 25. The AAIB released its preliminary report on July 12, confirming the movement of the fuel cutoff switches and the shift toward a criminal investigation.
The AAIB criticized early Western media reports that blamed the pilots without evidence, calling such coverage “irresponsible.” Instead, the focus remains on gathering facts and understanding exactly what happened in the cockpit during those critical seconds after takeoff.
Impact on Air India and the Aviation Community
The crash has had a profound effect on Air India and the wider aviation community. Families of the victims face unimaginable loss, and the airline’s reputation has come under intense scrutiny. Air India continues to cooperate fully with investigators and government authorities, working to support affected families and ensure the safety of its fleet.
The incident has also sparked debate about pilot mental health screening and cockpit security. Aviation analysts note that this crash is unprecedented for a modern, well-maintained aircraft like the Air India 787. As reported by VisaVerge.com, experts believe that airlines may need to adopt stricter psychological evaluations for pilots and improve cockpit access controls to prevent similar tragedies.
Policy Changes and Future Outlook
The DGCA’s directive for enhanced inspections on Boeing 787 aircraft is just the beginning. The investigation’s classification as a criminal act could lead to new aviation security protocols. These may include:
- Stricter psychological screening for pilots before and during employment
- Improved cockpit security measures to prevent unauthorized access or actions
- Enhanced use of cockpit voice recorders to monitor pilot behavior and communication
- Regular emergency response training for flight crews
The final AAIB report, expected later in 2025, will likely include recommendations for changes in pilot monitoring, cockpit procedures, and airline safety policies. Airlines operating Boeing 787s may face increased scrutiny and possible operational restrictions until they can prove their safety standards meet new requirements.
Step-by-Step Timeline of the Investigation
The Air India 787 crashes near Ahmedabad Airport.
Both EAFRs are found at the crash site.
EAFRs are sent to the AAIB lab in Delhi.
Investigators download and analyze flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
The AAIB releases its initial findings.
The AAIB treats the case as a potential criminal act.
The DGCA orders additional inspections and maintenance on all Boeing 787 aircraft in India.
The AAIB will issue its conclusive findings and suggest new safety measures.
- Crash and Immediate Response (June 12, 2025): The Air India 787 crashes near Ahmedabad Airport. Emergency teams respond, and Air India begins supporting victims’ families.
- Flight Recorder Recovery (June 13 and 16): Both EAFRs are found at the crash site and sent to the AAIB lab in Delhi.
- Data Retrieval (June 24-25): Investigators download and analyze flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
- Preliminary Report (July 12): The AAIB releases its initial findings, highlighting the fuel cutoff switch movement.
- Investigation Expansion (July 2025): The AAIB treats the case as a potential criminal act, with international agencies joining the effort.
- Ongoing Family Support: Air India continues to provide care and assistance to the families of victims.
- Fleet Safety Measures (June 15 onward): The DGCA orders additional inspections and maintenance on all Boeing 787 aircraft in India.
- Final Report and Recommendations (Expected late 2025): The AAIB will issue its conclusive findings and suggest new safety measures.
Implications for Travelers and the Public
For travelers, the crash raises concerns about safety and trust in airlines. Many passengers may feel anxious about flying, especially on Boeing 787 aircraft. Airlines must reassure the public by being transparent about safety measures and following all new regulations. The DGCA’s actions show that authorities are taking the issue seriously and working to prevent future tragedies.
Families affected by the crash face a long road to healing. Air India’s support centers and dedicated caregivers offer some comfort, but the loss is irreplaceable. The airline’s efforts to assist with repatriation and memorial services are important steps in helping families cope.
Resources and Where to Find More Information
Anyone seeking updates or support can contact Air India’s passenger hotline at 1800 5691 444 (India) or +91 80627 79200 (International). The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) leads the investigation, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversees airline safety in India. For official updates and safety guidelines, visit the DGCA’s official website.
Looking Ahead: What Comes Next
The Air India 787 crash investigation is ongoing, with the AAIB working closely with international partners to uncover the truth. The focus on deliberate fuel cutoff and possible criminal intent marks a turning point in aviation safety discussions. The final report will shape future airline policies, pilot screening, and cockpit security worldwide.
Until then, airlines, regulators, and travelers must remain vigilant. The lessons learned from this tragedy will help build a safer future for everyone who takes to the skies.
Learn Today
Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) → India’s agency investigating aircraft accidents and determining causes to improve aviation safety.
Fuel cutoff switches → Controls in aircraft engines that can stop fuel flow, causing engine shutdown.
Cockpit voice recorder (CVR) → Device recording pilots’ conversations and sounds inside the cockpit during flight for investigations.
Enhanced airborne flight recorders (EAFR) → Advanced flight data devices that capture detailed engine and flight system information.
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) → India’s aviation regulator responsible for aircraft safety rules and compliance.
This Article in a Nutshell
The June 2025 Air India 787 crash near Ahmedabad shocked aviation. AAIB suspects deliberate fuel cutoff caused the disaster, prompting criminal investigation. This tragic event claims 260 lives, prompting new safety inspections and policies for Boeing 787s to prevent future catastrophes and improve airline security and pilot screening worldwide.
— By VisaVerge.com