The investigation into the devastating Air India Flight 171 crash on June 12, 2025, is progressing, with authorities examining multiple possibilities—including sabotage. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in the deaths of 241 out of 242 people on board and 19 individuals on the ground. Gujarat health officials confirmed a total death toll of 260. All victims have been identified, and their remains handed over to their families.

Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading a comprehensive inquiry, leaving no angle unexplored. The black boxes—comprising the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR)—have been recovered and are currently being analysed in Delhi. The data decoding process began on June 24 with the support of Indian and US experts, including specialists from the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Investigators are piecing together the moments after takeoff, particularly the sequence that led to a Mayday call from the cockpit, indicating a serious in-flight emergency. Focus areas include engine thrust, flap positions, landing gear status, and the crew’s actions. A multidisciplinary team, formed a day after the crash, is also reviewing maintenance records, radio logs, and airport CCTV footage. Notably, a bird strike has already been ruled out.

Experts have called attention to the unusual nature of the crash, particularly the possibility of both engines failing simultaneously—a rare occurrence. The investigation is also exploring other scenarios such as sudden power loss, mechanical failure, and human error. Environmental conditions and ground surveillance footage are also being scrutinised.

Officials have confirmed that the black boxes will not be sent abroad, and the entire investigation will be conducted within India. The AAIB aims to release a final report within three months to provide answers and closure to the families of the victims.