The Centre on Wednesday informed Parliament that investigators have found no abnormality in the fuel control switch locking mechanism of the crashed Air India AI-171 aircraft, based on advanced testing conducted by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The update comes as the investigation into one of India's deadliest aviation disasters enters its final phase. The government said the findings were part of an extensive technical examination aimed at determining the cause of the crash that claimed 260 lives.

Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed on June 12, 2025, just 32 seconds after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The aircraft struck a medical college hostel shortly after departure, resulting in the deaths of at least 260 people. Responding to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said investigators had completed advanced tests on the fuel control switch locking mechanism and found no evidence of any defect or malfunction.

The minister added that examination of the aircraft's complete thrust control module is still underway in Seattle, where specialists continue to analyse critical components recovered from the wreckage. The ongoing technical assessment is expected to provide additional insights into the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Authorities said every aspect of the aircraft's systems is being scrutinised to ensure that all possible causes are thoroughly examined before the investigation is concluded.

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The government also rejected claims that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) had delayed the submission of its final report. It stated that investigations into major aviation accidents are highly complex and often require extensive technical evaluation as new evidence emerges. Officials emphasised that the inquiry is being conducted in line with internationally accepted aviation investigation protocols to ensure accuracy and transparency.

According to the Civil Aviation Ministry, the AAIB investigation has now entered its final stage, with investigators analysing the remaining technical evidence before preparing the final report. The government reiterated that passenger safety remains its highest priority and said the conclusions of the investigation would be based solely on scientific analysis and verified evidence. The final report is expected to provide a comprehensive account of the factors that led to the AI-171 crash and recommend measures to strengthen aviation safety.

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