A year after the Air India crash killed 260 people, the final report remains pending, deepening questions about what caused the disaster.
One year after the tragic Air India crash, many people are still waiting to learn what caused the disaster. The final investigation report, which was expected by the devastated families around the anniversary of the crash, is now delayed.
The accident happened on 12 June 2025 when Air India 171 crash, a Boeing 787 flying from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff. The tragedy claimed the lives of 241 of the 242 people on board, along with 19 people on the ground, making it the deadliest plane crash in the world in the past ten years.
Sources close to the investigation say the report may be delayed because experts are still examining important evidence related to the aircraft's engines. Under international aviation rules, investigators are expected to release a final report within one year. If that is not possible, they can issue a temporary update while the investigation continues.
The crucial mystery
Attention has centered on the aircraft's GE Aerospace engines and the movement of fuel control switches shortly after takeoff. A preliminary report released last year revealed that both engine fuel control switches moved almost simultaneously from RUN to CUTOFF, cutting fuel supply to both engines.
Cockpit voice recordings captured a startling exchange between the pilots. The shocking news is that one pilot was heard asking the other why he had cut off the switches, while the second pilot replied that he had not done so. Investigators have not determined how the switches moved or identified which pilot made each statement. The report also found that one engine was restarted, but it was too late to prevent the aircraft from losing speed and crashing.
Could new findings finally explain what happened?
Investigators conducted engine testing earlier this year and traveled to France to examine the aircraft's engine management systems. The examination has also reviewed reports involving a possible fuel control switch issue on another Air India Boeing 787, although Air India later stated that inspections across its fleet found no problems.
The tragedy of Air India crash Ahmedabad continues to raise difficult questions about what caused the aircraft to lose power moments after takeoff.
Compensation Cannot Replace The Truth
For relatives of the victims, the delay is deeply frustrating. Mohammed Shoeb Iproliya, who lost his wife Nusratjahan Jethara in the crash, says he wants only one thing: the truth. Others share the same feeling, families of passengers including Faizan Rafik and the couple Vanita Cana and Devji Lacmane say they need clear answers about what happened and how future tragedies can be prevented.
Air India has assured its support for affected families and says it remains committed to assisting them while the investigation continues. As Business Fortune observes, the investigation enters its second year, aviation experts and grieving families, all hope the final report will provide clarity, accountability, and lessons that strengthen airline safety worldwide.
FAQ
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When did Air India Flight 171 crash?
The aircraft crashed on 12 June 2025 shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, India.
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How many people died in the crash?
A total of 260 people lost their lives, including 241 people on board and 19 individuals on the ground.
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Why is the final investigation report delayed?
Investigators are reportedly conducting additional engine and system analysis before reaching final conclusions.
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What did the preliminary report reveal?
It found that both engine fuel control switches moved to the "CUTOFF" position shortly after takeoff, stopping fuel flow to the engines.
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What are families of the victims asking for?
Most families say they want a complete explanation of what caused the crash and assurances that similar accidents can be prevented in the future.
