Air India Crash: 6 Possible Causes Emerge from Ahmedabad Disaster

Air India Crash: 6 Possible Causes Emerge from Ahmedabad Disaster

Post by : Anis Karim

June 16, 2025 3:21 p.m. 2199

Photo: PTI

Ahmedabad — Investigators probing the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI‑171 have narrowed down six possible causes behind the disaster that claimed nearly 270 lives. Though definitive answers may take months, early evidence, including cockpit audio and video, is helping shape the investigation.

1. Dual Engine Failure
A dramatic possibility is that both GEnx engines failed shortly after takeoff. Videos appear to show deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT)—a small backup propeller that deploys when engines and electrical systems fail. The pilot’s mayday—“No thrust, losing power”—supports this theory, although twin engine loss on a Dreamliner is almost unheard of.

2. Electrical System Fault
The Dreamliner relies heavily on electrical systems. A cascading electrical failure could disable engine controls or flight instruments, leading to power loss. Witnesses reported flickering cabin lights and a loud boom during takeoff, raising concern over a sudden electrical breakdown.

3. Flap and Gear Misconfiguration
Early footage suggests the aircraft may have lost lift due to improper flap deployment or extended landing gear. Without flaps, the wings cannot produce needed lift at low speed, and gear left down increases drag. A misconfiguration or accidental retraction could have critically impaired climb capability.

4. Pilot Response Under Stress
Experts point to the critical seconds after takeoff being overwhelming. A rare dual-engine stall followed by possible incorrect reaction—such as shutting the wrong engine—could doom the flight. Pilots had little time; even a brief misstep in response can become irreversible.

5. Fuel Quality or Contamination
Another hypothesis examines the possibility of contaminated or improperly behaving fuel. Fuel contamination can reduce engine performance or cause flameouts. Investigators are testing fuel samples, while also ruling out sabotage or tampering.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

6. Bird Strike
Though less favored, a serious bird strike is still on the table. It could theoretically disrupt both engines during takeoff. However, early analysis of CCTV and site evidence has downplayed this possibility.

Authorities have ruled out sabotage. Each theory is being evaluated alongside cockpit voice recorder data and flight data recorder (black box). Teams from the DGCA, NTSB, FAA, Boeing, GE Aerospace and AAIB are analyzing systems like engine thrust, flap settings, gear position, and pilot inputs.

India’s regulator has grounded or inspected all Boeing 787s in the country. Preliminary checks cover thrust systems, electronic controls, flaps, hydraulics, and landing gear. Officials stress the probe must be thorough to restore public confidence.

If a dual-engine failure is confirmed, this would mark a structural and emergency response testing of the 787's resilience. Any flight configuration errors would highlight cockpit protocols and checklist training.

With investigations ongoing, authorities caution against premature conclusions. The black box review is expected to shed light on technical and crew actions. Families continue to wait, and India’s aviation safety reforms hang in the balance.

Umno Considers Rejoining Former Members Through Rumah Initiative

Umno is set to review re-entry applications from former members at an upcoming council meeting in Me

April 16, 2026 5:36 p.m. 163

Wasl Gate Opens Massive Central Park in Dubai Community

Wasl Group opened Central Park at Wasl Gate in Jebel Ali, a 82,700 sqm community space with sports,

April 16, 2026 5:32 p.m. 172

Setback for Malaysia as Pearly Tan Withdraws from Uber Cup

Pearly Tan's withdrawal due to injury creates challenges for Malaysia in the upcoming Uber Cup Final

April 16, 2026 5:28 p.m. 166

Strengthening Ringgit Stands Out as Malaysia Gears for GDP Data

As Malaysia anticipates its 1Q 2026 GDP data, the ringgit shows impressive strength against the US d

April 16, 2026 5:22 p.m. 171

Kuala Lumpur Robbery Incident Sees Six Arrested, Including Cop

Six individuals, including a police officer, face charges for gang robberies in Kuala Lumpur involvi

April 16, 2026 5:12 p.m. 164

UAE, Kazakhstan Leaders Boost Bilateral Cooperation Ties

UAE and Kazakhstan leaders discuss boosting bilateral ties, enhancing cooperation across sectors, an

April 16, 2026 5:11 p.m. 175

Explore Tara Sutaria’s Stylish abode in Mumbai

Step inside Tara Sutaria's chic Mumbai home, showcasing her personal touch and passion for design du

April 16, 2026 4:59 p.m. 168

UAE Central Bank Issues New AML Rules to Fight Crime

UAE Central Bank releases new AML/CFT guidelines to boost financial security, improve compliance, an

April 16, 2026 4:56 p.m. 169

Canada Offers $120 Million in Humanitarian Aid as Sudan Conflict Surges

In light of the escalating war in Sudan, Canada pledges $120 million to aid humanitarian efforts, ad

April 16, 2026 4:36 p.m. 180
Sponsored
https://markaziasolutions.com/
Trending News

7 Daily Habits to Burn Belly Fat Naturally

Discover 7 simple daily habits to burn belly fat naturally without extreme dieting. Easy, effective

April 15, 2026 4:23 p.m. 252

Power of Compounding: How $5,000 Can Grow Into $120,000

Discover how compounding turns $5,000 into $120,000 over time. Learn long-term investing strategies

April 15, 2026 1 p.m. 342

When to Test Blood Sugar: Morning vs After Breakfast Explained

Should you check blood sugar fasting or after meals? Learn the best time to test glucose levels and

April 15, 2026 12:19 p.m. 236

WhatsApp Down Today? Users Report Strange Issue Worldwide

WhatsApp users report message delays and strange issues worldwide. Find out what happened, why it oc

April 15, 2026 11:55 a.m. 250

Is Your Phone Spying on You? 6 Android Settings to Turn Off Now

Worried your phone is spying on you? Learn 6 Android settings to turn off now to protect your privac

April 14, 2026 12:28 p.m. 281

7 Protein-Rich Indian Foods You Should Add to Your Daily Diet

Discover 7 protein-rich Indian foods to boost your daily protein intake naturally without supplement

April 14, 2026 11:47 a.m. 279

Is It Safe to Keep Laptop Plugged In All the Time? Battery Truth Explained

Is it safe to keep your laptop plugged in all day? Learn the truth about battery health, charging ha

April 14, 2026 11:28 a.m. 247

Actual Cost of Living in Dubai for a Family : Rent, School Fees & Monthly Expenses

Discover the real cost of living in Dubai for a small family in 2026, including rent, school fees, g

April 13, 2026 3:17 p.m. 286