AI 171 Crash: Airline Pilots’ Association Rejects AAIB’s Tone Suggesting Possibility of Pilot Error in Preliminary Report, Demands Representation in Investigation
Bangalore, July 12, 2025 – The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India) has raised serious concerns over the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) preliminary report on the June 12 Air India Flight AI 171 crash, alleging bias toward pilot error and a lack of transparency in the probe.
In an official statement, ALPA India President Capt. Sam Thomas criticized the leaked report, which was shared with the media without official attribution, calling it a breach of protocol that undermines public trust.
Key Concerns Raised by ALPA India
1. Unauthorized Media Leak of Preliminary Report
ALPA India expressed dismay that the AAIB’s preliminary findings were leaked to the press without any official signature or attribution, raising questions about the credibility of the investigation.
2. Lack of Transparency & Exclusion of Experts
The association highlighted that the investigation remains “shrouded in secrecy,” with qualified line pilots excluded from the team. This omission, ALPA argues, compromises the fairness of the inquiry.
3. Sensitive Details Leaked to International Media
ALPA India referenced a July 10 Wall Street Journal report, which cited “inadvertent movement of fuel control switches” as a possible cause. The association demanded an explanation for how such confidential details reached international media before an official release.
4. Potential Equipment Malfunction Ignored
The AAIB report mentioned a serviceability bulletin concerning fuel control switch gates, suggesting a possible mechanical failure. However, ALPA India questioned whether corrective measures were implemented before the flight, urging investigators to consider all factors.
5. Presumption of Pilot Error
The tone of the report, ALPA claims, unfairly blames the pilots, disregarding other potential causes. The association “categorically rejects” this presumption and insists on a fact-based, impartial investigation.
6. Demand for Inclusion in Investigation
ALPA India has renewed its request to participate in the probe—at least as observers—to ensure transparency and accountability.
Background of the AI 171 Crash
On June 12, 2025, the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, killing 241 of 242 onboard and 19 people on the ground, marking the deadliest aviation disaster in a decade.
The AAIB’s preliminary findings indicated that both fuel control switches were moved to “CUTOFF” within seconds of takeoff, leading to engine shutdown. While one engine was restarted, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a medical college hostel.
Despite the report’s details, no conclusive explanation was provided on who moved the switches or why, leaving critical questions unanswered.
ALPA India’s Call for Fairness
ALPA India’s statement underscores the aviation community’s growing frustration with investigative opacity and premature conclusions. The association’s demands include:
- Full transparency in the investigation.
- Inclusion of experienced pilots in the probe.
- Clarification on leaked details to the media.
- A neutral, evidence-based approach without prejudging pilot responsibility.
As the investigation continues, ALPA India’s stance highlights the need for accountability in aviation safety protocols to restore public confidence.
