In brief
The investigation into the Air India Boeing 787 crash that killed 260 people is still ongoing, with officials indicating significant progress on aircraft systems and flight data. A preliminary report blamed the abrupt shut‑off of fuel controls seconds after take‑off, triggering engine failure. New cockpit recordings have led investigators to suspect senior pilot Captain Sabharwal, sparking backlash from pilot associations. No timetable has been released for the final report, keeping the aviation community in suspense.
Investigation into cause of Air India crash ongoing, officials say
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) says the probe into the 2025 Air India Boeing 787 crash that killed 260 people is ongoing, with the final report to be released upon completion. It added that “significant progress” has been made, especially on the examination of aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine components, and maintenance records.
The agency, however, has not set a date for the investigation’s completion, leaving aviation safety experts and the public awaiting the final findings.
A preliminary report released last year claimed that fuel‑control switches abruptly moved to the cut‑off position a few seconds after take‑off, starving the engines of fuel and causing total power loss. Audio recorded in the cockpit showed one pilot questioning the other about the action, while the other replied that he had not performed it—though investigators have not identified which pilot made either statement.
Recent reports by the Wall Street Journal and Reuters have shifted attention toward senior pilot Captain Sabharwal, suggesting that he cut the flow of fuel to the engines. These claims have drawn criticism from pilot associations, who argue that the coverage is unfounded and that no definitive evidence links Captain Sabharwal to the crash.
The investigation continues to examine the airworthiness of aircraft systems, the cockpit crew’s actions, and maintenance procedures. Leaders in the aviation community await the AAIB’s final report for confirmation on causes and future safety measures.
