A brief exchange between two Air India pilots during a critical moment has surfaced in the preliminary investigation into the deadly June 12 crash in Ahmedabad. According to a report by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), cockpit voice recordings captured a question from one pilot: “Why did you cut off fuel?” The other responded, “I did not do so.”
This exchange occurred seconds after both engine fuel cutoff switches moved from “Run” to “Cutoff” as the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner reached 180 knots just after take-off.
The aircraft, operating as flight AI 171 to London Gatwick, crashed into the hostel complex of B J Medical College shortly after departure. A total of 260 people died, including 241 onboard and 19 on the ground. One passenger survived.
Timeline of Engine Failure
The AAIB’s 15-page report lays out a timeline of the technical failure. At 13:38:52 IST, Engine 1’s switch was toggled back to “Run.” Engine 2 followed four seconds later. The aircraft’s recorder showed a rise in exhaust gas temperature for both engines, suggesting attempts to relight.
Engine 1 began recovering. Engine 2 did not. The N2 values for both engines—measuring core rotor speed—had already fallen below the minimum idle threshold. Despite multiple reintroduction attempts, engine 2 remained unstable.
Investigation and Wreckage Analysis
Both engines were recovered and placed in quarantine at the airport for further examination. The wreckage site was documented with drones and moved to a secure area.
Parts of the aircraft’s flight recorder were too damaged to extract data through normal procedures. Still, investigators have identified components for further testing.
“No safety recommendations have been issued yet for the Boeing 787-8 or GE GEnx-1B engine,” the AAIB said. The agency added that more information is being collected from relevant stakeholders.
Next Steps in the Investigation
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation had released a brief status update on June 26. The final report will follow after deeper analysis and review of all available evidence.
No conclusions have been drawn yet regarding potential faults or pilot error. The investigation remains open.
