One year since Air India crash: AAIB issues interim statement, says ‘sole purpose of probe to not apportion blame’ | India News
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) issued an interim statement on Friday, marking one year since the crash. It offered condolences to the family and assured the probe is being conducted in a comprehensive manner to ensure blame or liability is not assigned inaapropriately.“Today marks one year since the tragic accident involving Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating from Ahmedabad to London, which occurred shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, on 12 June 2025. On this solemn occasion, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives in the accident. We also acknowledge the enduring pain and loss suffered by all those affected,” said the AAIB in a press release.Further asserting their objective behind the probe it added, “The sole purpose of an accident investigation is to enhance aviation safety through the identification of lessons and safety recommendations, and not to apportion blame or liability. Accordingly, AAIB urges all stakeholders, including the media and the public, to refrain from speculation or premature conclusions while the investigation remains in progress.”AAIB also detailed the progress of their investigation. “Over the past year, the investigation team has undertaken an extensive and rigorous examination of all relevant technical, operational, organisational and human factors associated with the accident. This effort has been supported by accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject matter experts from relevant organisations. Significant progress has been made in the examination and analysis of aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components, maintenance and operational records, and other evidence relevant to the investigation.“The division of the ministry of civil aviation also stated that the evidence and findings from various examinations are currently under comprehensive, integrated analysis, with further technical and specialist assessments to be carried out wherever required to ensure conclusions are fully supported by verified, scientifically sound evidence.
Civil aviation minister’s statement
Earlier civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu paid tribute to the victims, saying the investigation into the tragedy was continuing with “diligence and professionalism”.“Today, as we mark one year since the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 accident, we remember with profound sorrow those who lost their lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones,” he wrote in a post on X.He added, “The investigation continues with diligence and professionalism in accordance with established national and international procedures. We remain committed to a thorough and objective determination of the causes of the accident and to further enhancing aviation safety.”Read more: Civil aviation minister on first anniversary of Air India crashThe remarks came as families of victims, friends and members of the aviation community gathered in Mumbai to mark the first anniversary of the Air India AI-171 crash. The Boeing 787-8, meant to fly from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, went down moments after take-off, exactly a year ago, during its initial climb. The disaster claimed 260 lives; 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 people on the ground.
