Air India Captain’s Fuel Cut-Off Sparks Investigation into Flight 171 Crash
Preliminary findings from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) indicate that both engine fuel control switches on Air India Flight 171 were manually moved from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ positions shortly after takeoff, leading to the aircraft’s loss of power. While the AAIB report does not assign blame for this action, subsequent reports from sources familiar with the investigation suggest the captain may have been responsible, sparking an intense probe.
Tragic turn of events, Air India Flight 171
In a tragic turn of events, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport on June 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 241 passengers and crew members, along with 19 individuals on the ground. Newly released preliminary findings from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have revealed that both engine fuel control switches were manually moved from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ positions within seconds of each other, leading to a loss of engine power and the subsequent crash .
Cockpit voice recordings have provided a glimpse into the final moments before the crash. In the recording, one pilot is heard asking, “Why did you cut off the fuel?” to which the other responds, “I did not do so” . This exchange has raised questions about the actions taken in the cockpit and the sequence of events leading to the crash.
Investigating the Cause
The AAIB’s preliminary report indicates that the fuel cutoff switches were moved to the ‘CUTOFF’ position shortly after takeoff, causing both engines to lose power. Despite efforts to restore fuel flow, the aircraft was unable to recover due to insufficient altitude and speed, resulting in the crash .
Aviation experts have noted that the fuel control switches are designed with safety features to prevent accidental activation. The switches require deliberate action to move from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF,’ making an accidental shutdown highly unlikely . This has led investigators to focus on the possibility of human error or intentional actions in the cockpit.
Pilot Backgrounds
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, aged 56, had approximately 15,600 flight hours, including nearly 8,600 hours on the Boeing 787. First Officer Clive Kunder, aged 32, had around 3,400 flight hours, with over 1,100 hours on the Boeing 787 . Both pilots were medically fit and well-rested prior to the flight.
Captain Sabharwal was known for his disciplined and reserved demeanor, while First Officer Kunder was described as enthusiastic and eager to learn. The cockpit voice recordings suggest a moment of confusion and uncertainty, with the pilots’ exchange indicating a lack of clarity about the fuel cutoff .
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities examining all available data, including cockpit voice recordings, flight data, and maintenance records. The AAIB has emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to determine the cause of the crash and to prevent similar incidents in the future .
The crash of Air India Flight 171 has raised significant questions about cockpit procedures, pilot actions, and aircraft safety systems. While preliminary findings suggest that the fuel cutoff switches were manually activated, the exact circumstances remain unclear. As the investigation continues, it is crucial to await the final report to understand the full scope of events and to implement necessary changes to enhance aviation safety.
For more updates on the investigation into Air India Flight 171 and other aviation safety news, stay tuned to official announcements from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau and reputable news sources.
Air India Flight 171 Tragedy: What We Know So Far About the Devastating Crash –
