A year after the crash of Air India Flight AI171 claimed 260 lives, key questions surrounding one of India`s deadliest aviation disasters remain unanswered, with the final investigation report yet to be released.
In an interim statement issued on Friday, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) said the probe into the June 12 crash had made “significant progress”, while cautioning against speculation as the investigation continues.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12 last year, killing 260 onboard.
AAIB expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy and acknowledged the pain suffered by those affected.
The bureau said the investigation is being conducted in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017, and the standards prescribed under ICAO Annex 13. A preliminary report containing factual information related to the crash was released on July 12, 2025.
According to AAIB, investigators have, over the past year, examined aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components, maintenance and operational records, as well as other evidence linked to the accident. The exercise has involved accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject matter experts from relevant organisations.
Final report awaited as analysis continues
The AAIB said the evidence gathered and the findings from various examinations were currently being analysed together, adding that further technical evaluations and specialist examinations would be undertaken wherever necessary before conclusions are drawn.
The bureau said the final report would be released only after all investigative activities are completed and the international review and consultation processes mandated under ICAO Annex 13 have been carried out.
Urging restraint, the AAIB said stakeholders, including the media and the public, should avoid speculation or premature conclusions while the investigation remains in progress.
It reiterated that the purpose of an accident investigation is to identify lessons and safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences, and not to apportion blame or determine liability.
While the agency maintained that the probe was progressing, the exact sequence of events that led to the crash and the factors responsible for the tragedy remain unknown a year after the accident, with victims` families continuing to await definitive answers.
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