Ahmedabad Crash: Both Black Boxes Recovered as Probe Targets Engines, Flaps & Gear
Two black boxes from the Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad have been retrieved. Investigators are focusing on engines, flap settings, and landing gear configuration to uncover the cause.
image for illustrative purpose
On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight 171—a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner—crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, tragically killing 241 people onboard and dozens more on the ground. A sole survivor, seated in exit row 11A, is now hospitalized.
By June 13, both flight recorders—the Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder—had been recovered: one found on the roof of a hostel in BJ Medical College and the other later retrieved from the debris. Authorities are now analyzing these devices to piece together the final 33 seconds of flight.
Investigators suspect critical flight configuration errors:
- Landing gear remained extended, preventing full ascent.
- Flap settings appear incorrect, likely hindering lift.
- Engine thrust and pre-flight takeoff data will be thoroughly reviewed.
- These mechanical and procedural areas are top priorities for the probe.
In response, the DGCA has ordered targeted safety inspections of Air India’s Boeing 787‑8/9 fleet. These include checks on takeoff parameters, fuel systems, electronic engine controls, hydraulic systems, and flight control integrity.
- Preliminary findings from black box analysis—likely within days to a week.
- Results from mandated fleet inspections, set to start June 15.
- Collaboration with Boeing, GE Aerospace, NTSB & UK AAIB, ensuring global safety standards are upheld.
