✈️ Air India Flight 171 Crash: Black Box Analysis Begins
Published on: June 28, 2025
Category: National News |
💔 Tragedy in the Skies
On June 12, 2025, the nation witnessed one of its deadliest air disasters in recent memory. Air India Flight 171, route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 people onboard and 19 on the ground.
Now, the spotlight is on the ongoing black box investigation, as officials race to determine what went wrong.
🔍 What Happened?
- Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed into a student hostel just minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
- Initial reports suggest a mechanical failure or engine malfunction, but the official cause is still unknown.
- Only one person survived—a crew member seated at the rear of the aircraft.
🎛️ Black Box Recovery & Analysis
The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR)—commonly referred to as the black boxes—were recovered by officials within days of the crash. Both were sent to AAIB's state-of-the-art lab in New Delhi.
As of June 27, the analysis is now underway, with teams from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) jointly involved.
🧩 What’s Inside the Black Boxes?
- The CVR contains the last two hours of cockpit audio, including crew communication and warning alarms.
- The FDR logs hundreds of parameters—altitude, airspeed, engine performance, control inputs—offering a timeline of events.
Early leaks from investigators suggest the recording includes a chilling “Mayday” call moments before impact.
🧪 Possible Factors Under Review
Investigators are looking at multiple potential causes:
- 🛠️ Engine thrust failure
- 🧯 Fire or explosion
- ⚙️ Landing gear malfunction
- 🌪️ Drag or aerodynamic anomaly
- 👨✈️ Pilot response and system override
Experts say the final 40 seconds of the flight will hold the key to understanding the disaster.
🌍 Global Oversight: ICAO Steps In
In a rare move, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has sent an official to observe the investigation—ensuring global transparency. This has boosted public trust and added pressure to deliver unbiased results.
📅 Timeline: What Happens Next?
- Initial black box report expected: Early July 2025
- Preliminary findings: Within 30 days of the crash
- Final AAIB report: Estimated 3–6 months
Meanwhile, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a relief trust fund for affected families.
🗣️ Public & Political Reaction
The crash has sparked national outrage and international attention:
- ✍️ The Indian Parliament has called for a full audit of airline safety regulations.
- 💬 Aviation Minister promised “full accountability.”
- 🧑⚖️ Relatives of victims have filed class action suits against Air India and Boeing.
🕯️ In Memory
This tragedy marks one of the darkest days in Indian aviation history. Memorials have sprung up in Ahmedabad and London, and candlelight vigils are being held across the country.
As investigations continue, the nation prays for justice, answers, and improved safety for all air travelers.