Broadcast India News.

Broadcast India News.

1st July, 2025

Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

✈️ Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight 171 Crash

On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India. The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick Airport, carrying 242 people—230 passengers and 12 crew members.

🕒 Timeline of Events

  • 13:38 IST: The aircraft departed from Ahmedabad.

  • 13:39 IST: Approximately 60 seconds after takeoff, the flight crew issued a mayday call.

  • 13:40 IST: The aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a building in the Meghaninagar area, approximately 625 feet from the airport perimeter.

🧑‍✈️ Crew and Passengers

  • Captain Sumeet Sabharwal: With over 8,200 flight hours.

  • First Officer: Approximately 1,100 flight hours.

  • Passenger Profile: Among the 230 passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian national.

🧠 Investigation and Theories

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal investigation into the crash. Preliminary theories include:

  • Loss of Engine Thrust: Possible mechanical failure leading to a loss of power shortly after takeoff.

  • Improper Configuration of Wing Flaps and Landing Gear: Speculation that the flaps were mistakenly retracted early, reducing lift and causing an aerodynamic stall. Additionally, the landing gear may have remained extended, increasing drag and hindering climb performance.

Aviation experts have drawn parallels to past crashes caused by incorrect flap settings, underscoring the critical nature of proper takeoff procedures.

🛠️ Impact on Boeing and Air India

This incident marks the first fatal crash and hull loss involving the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, raising significant concerns about the aircraft’s safety record. Boeing’s stock fell over 8% following the crash, and the company is under increased scrutiny regarding the aircraft’s design and manufacturing processes.

Air India, which has been modernizing its fleet under the ownership of Tata Group, faces challenges in maintaining public confidence. The airline has expressed deep condolences and is cooperating fully with the investigation.

🕊️ Human Impact

Among the victims was Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had recently expressed his intention to retire from flying to fulfill a promise to his father. The crash has left the aviation community and the nation in mourning.

🔮 Looking Ahead

As investigations continue, the aviation industry awaits answers to the questions surrounding this tragic event. The findings may lead to changes in safety protocols and regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.