Summary
Discover the latest updates on the Air India Ahmedabad crash investigation. Written by Kishor Nepal, a local travel expert with over 25 years of tourism experience, who also shares insights and inspiration for exploring Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet and the wider Himalayan region.
Air India Ahmedabad Crash – The investigation into the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad continues more than 16 months after the disaster that claimed 260 lives. Although investigators have completed substantial technical examinations and the inquiry has reached an advanced stage, the final investigation report has not yet been publicly released.
The crash occurred on 12 June 2025, when an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Of the 242 people on board, 241 lost their lives. Nineteen people on the ground were also killed, while one passenger survived.
Investigation Update on Air India Ahmedabad Crash: November 2026
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation with technical assistance and participation from relevant international authorities.
In July 2026, the AAIB informed the Supreme Court that the investigation was nearing completion and that a draft final report was expected around October, subject to outstanding technical examinations and international consultation.
However, as of 3 November 2026, the final report has not been publicly released. The investigation’s findings and the definitive cause of the accident therefore remain unconfirmed.
New Developments in the Investigation
1. Pilots’ association requests independent technical review
In September 2026, the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) requested formal participation in any independent technical review of the draft final investigation report.
The association raised concerns about differences in simulator test results and asked the Civil Aviation Ministry to ensure that its technical submissions were considered before the report was finalised.
This development highlights the continuing debate within the aviation community over the technical evidence and the importance of a transparent, evidence-based investigation.
2. Fuel-control switch examination
The aircraft’s engine fuel-control switches have been a central focus of the investigation. The preliminary report established that both switches moved from the RUN position to CUTOFF shortly after take-off.
In July 2026, the Indian government reported that testing had found no abnormality in the locking mechanism of the fuel-control switches. However, examination of the complete thrust-control module was still underway.
This finding does not establish why the switches moved or rule out other possible technical or operational factors.
3. Investigation leadership and continuity
In late October 2026, reports indicated that the government had extended the tenure of AAIB Director-General G. V. G. Yugandhar by one year. The decision was intended to maintain continuity while several major aviation accident investigations, including AI-171, remain ongoing.
What Caused the Air India Flight AI-171 Crash?
One of the most important unresolved questions concerns the movement of the two engine fuel-control switches shortly after take-off.
The preliminary investigation report described a cockpit conversation in which one pilot questioned the other about the fuel switches being moved to CUTOFF. The other pilot responded that he had not done so.
This exchange attracted considerable media attention and led to speculation about possible pilot involvement. However, the preliminary report did not establish that either pilot deliberately moved the switches.
Investigators have also examined possible aircraft-system and electrical failures, including the deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), which provides emergency power when normal aircraft systems are compromised.
The exact sequence of events and the underlying cause must be established through the final investigation report rather than speculation.
Remembering the Victims
The Ahmedabad crash was one of the most devastating aviation disasters in India’s history. It affected passengers, crew members, families and members of the local community.
Beyond determining the cause, the investigation is expected to identify safety lessons and recommendations that may help prevent similar accidents in the future.
What Happens Next?
The aviation community, the families of the victims and the travelling public are awaiting the final findings from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.
The report is expected to provide a clearer explanation of the technical, operational and human factors involved in the accident, together with any safety recommendations arising from the investigation.
As of 3 November 2026, the cause of the Air India Ahmedabad crash remains officially undetermined. Until the final report is published, conclusions about pilot responsibility or aircraft-system failure should be treated with caution.
This article will be updated when the AAIB or India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation releases further verified information.
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About the Author – Kishor Nepal
Kishor Nepal is the Co-Founder & Holiday Expert at Nepal Tours Packages, with over 25 years of experience in Nepal’s tourism industry. As a local travel expert, he specialises in private tailor-made holidays, cultural journeys, Himalayan trekking and multi-country adventures across Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet. He is passionate about sharing authentic Himalayan experiences and helping travellers discover the region with confidence and care.
