The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) had submitted a preliminary report on the AI171 plane crash to the ministry of civil aviation on Tuesday. Vibes of India understands that the report is based on the initial findings. This report may not be detailed and definitive.
As of now, investigations are focused on the fuel control switches that were switched off, claimed media reports, citing some findings by The Wall Street Journal. It is still unknown, though, whether this was an accident or otherwise. And it’s yet to be ascertained whether an effort was made to switch them back on.
According to reports, a representative for GE Aerospace declined comment. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) addressed the issue to Indian authorities. Reports mentioned that Boeing referred them to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
Requests for comment from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) were not immediately answered.
That data on the crash remains inconclusive could be gauged from multiple reports.
The investigation has focused on the movement of the engine fuel control switches, based on analysis of the Boeing 787’s integrated flight and voice data recorders.
Investigators are also analysing data on emergency systems like the backup ram air turbine and auxiliary power unit.
Furthermore, data does not indicate a mechanical or design issue with the 787 or its GE Aerospace engines.
Post-accident analysis has shown no sign of fuel contamination or improper flap retraction—factors often speculated as contributors.
According to information provided by a reputed aviation journal, The Air Current, the lack of advisory warnings or urgent recommendations from Boeing, the US National Transportation Safety Board, or the Federal Aviation Administration is a key signal that mechanical failure is not immediately suspected as the cause.
It has emerged that details surrounding the engine fuel control switches will take months—if not longer—to analyse alongside other data. The focus of investigators could shift over time, and typically a preliminary report only establishes facts without analysis.
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has faced criticism for inconsistent communication and a slow pace of verified disclosures, creating a vacuum filled by speculation and misinformation, including that originating from generative AI platforms.
According to those familiar with the investigation, available information from the black boxes does not conclusively rule in or out any inadvertent actions related to the apparent loss of thrust before the aircraft crashed into a student hostel.
It remains unknown whether one or both fuel control switches in the cockpit were moved after takeoff. These switches, which control fuel flow to the engines, can only be moved under specific conditions on the ground or in the event of an emergency. Moving a switch from Run to Cutoff in flight would immediately shut down an engine and stop its electrical generators.
The 787’s flight control systems automatically compensate for engine thrust differences, and cockpit instruments provide multiple cues to the crew.
The absence of conclusive findings combined with incomplete public information means more speculation about pilot error risks unfairly targeting those who cannot respond.
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