Overview
A detailed analysis is provided regarding the crash of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787, immediately after takeoff on June 12, 2025. The discussion investigates potential causes, examines video and audio evidence, and highlights early findings and responses.
Crash Incident and Evidence Review
- Air India Flight 171 crashed less than 60 seconds after takeoff, reaching an altitude of about 625 feet before descending.
- Early video circulated was a poor-quality copy; a clearer, original video later surfaced, offering additional clues.
- Audio from the original video suggested the deployment of the ram air turbine (RAT), typically triggered by major engine or electrical failure.
- Video analysis indicated no visible external anomalies (e.g., no smoke or fire before impact).
- Security camera location and flight path were reconstructed, confirming rapid descent into a nearby medical college.
Technical and Investigative Insights
- The ram air turbine (RAT) is an emergency device that deploys automatically during critical failures.
- RAT deployment noise in the video matched known examples from previous emergency landings with other 787s.
- Flight data indicated the aircraft reached normal speeds and altitude before losing lift, suggesting power loss or engine issues.
- No current evidence indicated issues with flaps or aircraft attitude; pilots appeared to manage the situation as best as possible.
Survivor Account and Aftermath
- One known survivor, Romesh Vishwashkumar (seat 11A), escaped the wreckage post-crash; initial reports on his actions may be misunderstood due to translation differences.
- Crash site chaos was mitigated by the proximity to a medical college, aiding immediate response.
- Wreckage photos highlighted severe destruction, but at least one section allowed for escape.
Context and Industry Response
- The US NTSB is assisting with the investigation and will analyze flight data recorders for further insight.
- The Boeing 787 had no prior catastrophic losses, and its general safety record remains strong.
- Boeing’s stock price dropped significantly following news of the crash.
Speculated Causes and Next Steps
- Possible causes include dual engine thrust loss or major electrical failure.
- Investigation ongoing, and hypotheses may change as new data is reviewed.
- Media and public are reminded that not all circulating footage or accounts can be verified at this early stage.
Decisions
- Request NTSB support: NTSB to assist local authorities and retrieve/analyze cockpit data and flight recorders.
Action Items
- TBD – NTSB/Investigators: Recover and analyze flight recorders for additional information on inputs and failure sequence.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- What was the exact mechanical or electrical trigger for the RAT deployment?
- Are there verified reports from other crew or passengers regarding pre-crash conditions?
- Did maintenance history reveal issues affecting thrust or systems?