AAIB urges restraint amid speculation on factors influencing AI171 crash

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of the Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a formal appeal urging the media and public to refrain from drawing premature conclusions regarding the Air India crash that occurred on 12 June near Ahmedabad, taking 260 lives.

The appeal, notably signed by AAIB director-general G.V.G. Yugandhar, contrasts with the unsigned preliminary report previously released in the early hours of 12 July.

This follows widespread speculation triggered by a report in the Wall Street Journal, which cited unnamed sources familiar with early assessments by US officials. According to the report, a black box recording — yet to be officially released by Indian authorities — suggested that the Air India flight's captain may have manually shut off switches controlling fuel to both engines.

In response, the AAIB reiterated its commitment to a thorough and unbiased investigation conducted under the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017, and in alignment with international standards set by ICAO Annex 13.

“The VT-ANB accident has been the most devastating accident in recent aviation history,” the statement read, emphasising that the inquiry is being undertaken “in a rigorous and most professional manner”. The agency cautioned against sensationalist or speculative reporting, particularly while the investigation remains ongoing. 

“Certain sections of the international media are repeatedly attempting to draw conclusions through selective and unverified reporting,” the AAIB noted, describing such actions as “irresponsible” and potentially harmful to public confidence in aviation safety.

The agency further underscored the human tragedy of the incident, calling for sensitivity toward the families of the deceased passengers, crew, and individuals on the ground.

Crucially, the AAIB reminded stakeholders that the preliminary report is intended only to establish what happened — not why it happened. The final report, which will include root cause analysis and safety recommendations, is still in preparation.

The bureau concluded its statement with an appeal for patience and prudence: “AAIB appeals to all concerned to await publication of [the] Final Investigation Report after completion of the Investigation. AAIB will also publish updates as and when required which have technical and public interest.”