Preliminary findings from the investigation into the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 reveal chilling moments captured in the cockpit just seconds after takeoff. According to a leaked transcript from the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), the co-pilot’s final words were a desperate warning: “We’re losing thrust!” This occurred just 18 seconds into the flight, highlighting how quickly the situation deteriorated.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after departure from Ahmedabad, killing all 241 people onboard and 19 on the ground. The crash marks the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 globally.

What Happened in the Cockpit?

According to a preliminary report from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the flight crew experienced a sudden loss of engine thrust almost immediately after takeoff. The co-pilot’s urgent warning was followed by chaotic moments in the cockpit as both pilots attempted to troubleshoot the emergency.

Investigators confirmed that the fuel control switches for both engines were found in the “cutoff” position. These switches control fuel flow to the engines, and in the cutoff position, they would have caused the engines to lose power.

Did the Pilots Accidentally Shut Down the Engines?

Investigators are examining whether the fuel cutoff switches were moved intentionally, accidentally, or whether a technical fault triggered the shutdown. The AAIB’s report emphasizes that these switches are protected by safeguards and require deliberate action to move. No evidence of sabotage has been found.

The Boeing 787 has multiple alerts designed to warn pilots of engine and fuel issues. The investigation will focus on why those warnings did not prevent the crash.

Captain’s Last Actions

The CVR also captured the captain reacting to what he saw on the flight displays and warning systems. Sources familiar with the recording say the captain’s voice rose in alarm, questioning what was happening. His last recorded words are still under review by investigators.

The rapid sequence of events gave the crew little time to recover. The aircraft reached a maximum altitude of only about 350 feet before crashing.

Preliminary Conclusions

The AAIB’s early report highlights these key findings:

Both engines lost thrust due to fuel cutoff shortly after takeoff.

No external factors like weather, bird strikes, or sabotage were found.

The crew did not report prior mechanical issues with the engines.

The crash sequence occurred within 30 seconds of takeoff.

Investigators are working with Boeing to determine if any electrical or software malfunction could have caused the fuel cutoff switches to activate.

Industry and Regulatory Response

Following the preliminary findings, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered precautionary inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft operating in India to ensure that fuel control switches are functioning properly and that crew training covers such emergencies.

Boeing issued a statement expressing condolences and pledging full cooperation with the investigation.

This accident has prompted international aviation authorities, including the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), to monitor the investigation closely.

The Human Cost

The crash of Air India 171 is one of the deadliest in India’s aviation history. The passengers included families traveling for summer holidays and several foreign nationals. The recovery and identification of victims are ongoing, and memorial services are being planned across India.

What Happens Next?

The final report, expected within six to nine months, will aim to answer whether:

Pilot error or miscommunication caused the fuel cutoff.

A system malfunction played a role in the thrust loss.

Boeing’s design of the fuel control system meets modern safety standards.

Until then, Indian and international regulators have not grounded the Boeing 787 but will be monitoring developments carefully.

This crash underscores how even modern, highly automated aircraft are vulnerable to rapid failures and the critical role of cockpit training in managing such emergencies.