In brief
A preliminary report on the Air India Flight 171 crash has revealed that fuel was cut off to both engines just seconds after takeoff, prompting inquiries into the pilots' decisions and ruling out mechanical issues.
A recent investigation into the devastating crash of Air India Flight 171, which occurred last month shortly after departing from Ahmedabad, has shed light on alarming new details suggesting human error was a significant factor. According to a preliminary report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, fuel to both engines was unexpectedly shut off moments after takeoff on June 12, leading the crash of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London, resulting in the loss of 241 lives out of the 242 onboard. This tragedy, now recognized as India's deadliest aviation incident since 1996, not only claimed the lives of those aboard the flight but also caused fatalities for nearly 30 individuals on the ground when the plane struck a medical college.The cockpit voice recordings played a crucial role in the investigation. One recorded conversation captures a troubling exchange between the pilots, where one questioned the other about the fuel cutoff, to which the second pilot responded that he had not made such a decision. These revelations have led authorities to scrutinize the actions taken by the experienced pilots, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder, who had a joint flying experience surpassing earlier estimates.Boeing and General Electric, the manufacturers associated with the aircraft and engines, have been informed that no further action is needed regarding mechanical or design faults. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and accountability of aviation operations to prevent future tragedies.
