Fact Check: Indian Air Crash Preliminary Report Out
What We Know
On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India, resulting in significant loss of life and prompting an extensive investigation. According to the BBC, under international aviation regulations, a preliminary investigation report is expected to be released within 30 days of the incident, with a comprehensive final report ideally completed within 12 months. The investigation is focused on various potential causes, including engine failure, improper flap extension, and possible crew errors, as outlined by aviation experts consulted in the report.
As of now, investigators have recovered one of the aircraft's black boxes, which is crucial for determining the circumstances leading to the crash. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India is leading the investigation, with assistance from international experts, including those from Boeing and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Analysis
While there has been much speculation about the causes of the crash, no official preliminary report has been released yet. A recent article from Reuters indicates that the investigation is ongoing and focuses on critical components such as the engines and flaps. However, a claim circulating online, purporting to be a preliminary report from the AAIB, has been identified as a hoax, according to Aviacionline. This underscores the importance of relying on verified sources for information regarding aviation incidents.
The investigation is complex and involves meticulous examination of the wreckage, flight data, and maintenance records. As noted by experts, initial findings may take time to emerge, and understanding the full scope of the incident will require thorough analysis of the data retrieved from the black boxes. The News18 report suggests that early assessments have ruled out certain causes, such as bird strikes, but definitive conclusions cannot be drawn until the investigation is complete.
The reliability of sources reporting on this incident varies. Established news organizations like the BBC and Reuters are generally considered credible, while unverified claims on social media should be approached with caution. The ongoing nature of the investigation means that information is subject to change as new evidence comes to light.
Conclusion
Needs Research. The claim that a preliminary report on the Air India crash has been released is not substantiated by credible sources. While the investigation is actively ongoing, and initial findings are being discussed, no official report has been published as of now. The situation remains fluid, and further research will be necessary to provide accurate updates as the investigation progresses.
Sources
- Air India: How the Boeing Dreamliner crash investigation is unfolding - BBC
- Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau
- Air India crash probe focuses on engine, flaps - Reuters
- India to decide on overseas analysis of Air India crash flight - BBC
- Boeing 787's emergency-power system likely active before crash - Reuters
- Fact-Check: Viral "Air India Crash Preliminary Report" a Hoax - Aviacionline
- Air India Crash Not Caused By Bird Hit, Overloading: Initial Probe Report - News18