What Caused the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Crash in Ahmedabad?

The year 2025 brought extreme highs and devastating lows to Gujarat, India. A major Ahmedabad aviation disaster cast a profound pall of gloom over the state. This tragedy, involving Air India Flight AI 171, was one of several major infrastructure and safety failures. Conversely, the state celebrated major wins in sports and conservation.

The AI 171 Disaster: A Global Aviation Shock

On June 12, 2025, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff. Air India Flight AI 171 was bound for London Gatwick Airport. The aircraft departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. It plunged into a medical hostel complex just 32 seconds after liftoff. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash resulted in 241 fatalities on board. An additional 19 people were killed on the ground, bringing the total loss of life to 260. Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. This incident is among the worst aviation disasters in recent history.

Investigation Focus: Fuel Control Switches

India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) immediately launched a probe. The investigation is being conducted in line with ICAO Annex 13 protocols. Experts from the US NTSB are assisting the DGCA investigation. The preliminary report, released in July 2025, revealed a critical finding. Both engines lost thrust after their fuel control switch cutoff from the RUN position. This occurred just three seconds after the aircraft lifted off the runway. The report did not conclude why the switches moved. The ongoing investigation is examining both mechanical failure and cockpit action. The tragedy has reignited global scrutiny on aviation safety standards and maintenance protocols.

• The aircraft was a 12-year-old Boeing 787-8, registration VT-ANB.
• The sole survivor was a British national of Indian origin.
• Air India conducted precautionary inspections on its 787 and 737 fleets.

Infrastructure and Safety Concerns

The aviation tragedy was one of several Gujarat 2025 tragedies that year. A partial collapse of the Gambhira bridge in Vadodara district shook the state. This 40-year-old overpass failed in July 2025, causing multiple vehicles to plunge into the Mahisagar River. The Gambhira bridge collapse claimed 22 lives. Public criticism focused on lapses in the bridge's inspection and maintenance.

Other grim events included a deadly firecracker godown inferno in Banaskantha. A Coast Guard helicopter crash near Porbandar also resulted in three fatalities. These incidents collectively underscored a year of significant infrastructure and operational challenges.

Moments of Cheer: Lions and Games

Amidst the tragedies, Gujarat also celebrated major achievements. The state secured the rights to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Ahmedabad was officially declared the host city in November 2025. This will be the second time India hosts the event.

Conservation efforts also yielded positive results. The May 2025 Asiatic lion census reported a significant population increase. The lion count rose to an estimated 891 individuals, up from 674 five years prior. The big cats were also found expanding their range beyond Gir National Park.

On the political front, the state government initiated a panel to explore the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). This move sparked significant debate and criticism from the Opposition. A cabinet expansion also saw the induction of 19 new ministers and the elevation of Harsh Sanghavi to Deputy Chief Minister. These political shifts occurred amidst the backdrop of the year's disasters and celebrations.