The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its initial report on Saturday. It explained that Air India flight AI171 crashed because both engines shut down just after takeoff.

The Boeing 787-8 was flying from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on June 12. It crashed within seconds, killing 260 people, including many on the ground.

Fuel Cutoff Caused Engine Shutdown

The 15-page report revealed a critical detail. The switches for both engines moved from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ within one second of each other. This action cut off the fuel supply and stopped both engines.

The AAIB said the engines had no fuel. As a result, the aircraft lost all thrust during the climb.

The Plane Flew for Only 32 Seconds

The aircraft stayed in the air for just 32 seconds. It travelled only 0.9 nautical miles before crashing into the BJ Medical College Hostel near the airport.

Investigators noted the plane reached 180 knots at its highest speed. Right after that, both engine cutoff switches changed. Although the thrust levers were found near idle, the black box showed they stayed forward until the crash. Both fuel control switches were also in the ‘RUN’ position.

Emergency Turbine Activated

The Ram Air Turbine (RAT), an emergency power source, deployed just after takeoff. CCTV footage confirmed this. The RAT activates when the engines lose all power.

The pilots tried to restart the engines. Engine 1 showed some signs of recovery. But Engine 2 did not restart. The aircraft hit the hostel just 0.9 nautical miles from the runway.

Cockpit Audio Shows Pilot Confusion

The cockpit voice recorder caught a key exchange. One pilot asked, “Why did you cut off?” The other replied, “I did not.” This shows both pilots were confused about the engine shutdown.

No Signs of Sabotage

Investigators ruled out sabotage. They tested the aircraft's fuel from both the bowsers and tanks. The results showed the fuel was safe.

The weather was clear. Visibility was good, and winds were light. The pilots were healthy, well-rested, and experienced with the aircraft.

Air India Releases Statement

Air India responded to the report. The airline posted on X, “Air India stands in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI171 accident. We continue to mourn the loss and are fully committed to providing support during this difficult time. We acknowledge receipt of the preliminary report released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) today, 12 July 2025.”

Air India stands in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI171 accident. We continue to mourn the loss and are fully committed to providing support during this difficult time.
 
We acknowledge receipt of the preliminary report released by the Aircraft Accident…

— Air India (@airindia) July 11, 2025