An Italian media outlet had published a report about the Air India AI-171 flight accident in Ahmedabad. It stated that the accident occurred due to 'intentional error'. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) claimed that report was 'false' and 'baseless'.
Also Read | Tamil inscriptions found in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings reveal 2,000-year-old Indian trade routes
The Italian daily newspaper 'Corriere della Sera' reported that the accident was not caused by any mechanical fault. The report also stated that investigators of this accident believe the flight commander had switched off the engine fuel control switch, causing the flight to lose thrust. Notably, the pilot-in-command of that flight was Captain Sumit Savarwal.
Investigation ongoing, no final cause established
AAIB has stated that the incident is being investigated properly according to the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2025. No final decision has been made regarding the cause of this accident in the investigation. Such investigations are entirely data and technology-dependent and based on evidence. It may be noted that the preliminary investigation report was submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation last July. AAIB has asked the media to exercise restraint regarding such investigations and refrain from spreading speculation.
Also Read | Defence Acquisition Council clears ₹3.6 lakh crore proposals, includes Rafale MRFA for IAF
Notably, on June 12, 2025, Air India 171 aircraft bound for London from Ahmedabad airport crashed within 32 seconds of takeoff. In the accident, 260 people died, including cabin crew and pilots. Only one passenger survived. Gujarat's former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani also died in this accident.
