Incident Background
The aircraft was a Boeing 787‑8 carrying 242 passengers and crew, bound for London. It crashed aft of Ahmedabad airport within seconds of take‑off, demolishing a medical college building and killing 241 onboard and 19 on the ground.
Current Investigation Status
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released a 12 July 2025 preliminary report. The body of the investigation is still actively analysing the flight recorders, engine components, and maintenance records. Officials emphasise that the final report will be issued only after all investigative activities and international reviews are complete.
Preliminary Findings
Audio from the cockpit captured a conversation in which the pilot in command asked for a reason for a sudden fuel‑cut. The other pilot replied that he had not performed the cut‑off, though the report could not determine which pilot spoke. The investigation concludes that the engines lost power within moments of departure due to abrupt fuel‑control switch movement.
Public and Professional Response
The speculation about pilot culpability led to backlash from pilots’ associations, who deny any suggestion that the crew caused the crash. In a recent BBC interview, the father of senior pilot Capt Sumeet Sabharwal expressed resolve to protect his son’s reputation, citing the pressure placed on pilots when accidents occur.
Next Steps
AAIB remains committed to releasing a conclusive final report. The report will address lessons for aviation safety and will not assign blame. The international aviation community expects a thorough review before the finalisation of recommendations.
