Air India Flight 171 Crash: What We Know So Far

In perhaps the most tragic air crash in recent times in Indian aviation history, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, crashed just after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The plane was heading to London Gatwick but plummeted within minutes and crashed into a medical college hostel next to it. The catastrophic crash has left 275 people confirmed dead, 241 passengers and crew members, and 34 on the ground. 

What Caused the Crash?

Initial probes indicate a double engine power failure disaster, soon after lift-off. The RAM air turbine of the plane—employed during emergencies—was discovered to be deployed, which means both engines had failed. Flight experts are also scrutinizing whether faulty flap settings and a non-retracted landing gear could have prevented the plane from climbing.

The cockpit voice recorder and black box were also recovered quickly and are being examined at the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) center in New Delhi. Unlike the previous speculation, the flight data has not been transferred abroad.

Safety Violations and Systemic Lapses

After the crash, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered a country-wide audit that showed serious shortcomings in aircraft maintenance, inspection procedures, and ground procedures at several carriers and airports in India.

The audit encouraged pilots to become more cautious. Airlines now are seeing a wave of flight cancellations and delays because pilots are grounding aircraft for even minor concerns like sensor malfunctions or routine alarms.

✈️ Effects on Air India and Aviation Sector

The accident has had instant effects for Air India, now owned by the Tata Group. The airline has reduced international operations by 15% in the short term and initiated an internal safety and operations overhaul. Flight safety and crisis management have been taken directly under the charge of Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran.

At the Paris Air Show, Boeing came under sharp questioning regarding the dependability of its Dreamliner jets, but no design defect has been proved. Boeing's share fell marginally, reflecting investor nervousness.

Public Reactions and Fear of Flying

Confidence in air travel has taken a serious dent. Online booking websites see a 20% reduction in new bookings, and an increase in cancellations on domestic and international flights. Mental health clinics are also seeing an increase in demand for aviation anxiety counseling. 

⏭ What Happens Next

A preliminary crash report is expected by mid-July 2025, while a final report may take up to a year. Investigations will focus on engine performance, flight crew actions, and aircraft maintenance records. In parallel, the government is expected to introduce stricter safety norms and possibly set up independent flight safety oversight.