Pilot Actions Under Scrutiny as Air India Crash Investigation Progresses

Investigators continue to examine the cause of the Air India Boeing 787 crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, with early findings raising questions about pilot actions. The preliminary report from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau revealed that one of the pilots moved two engine fuel control switches from the "run" to "cutoff" position seconds after takeoff, effectively cutting power to both engines. The switches were moved one second apart, and the report did not clarify which pilot was responsible.

Aviation safety experts say the evidence so far points toward pilot involvement, as mechanical, software, or electronic failures are considered unlikely given the sequence of events. Mike Dunlop, an aviation expert, stated, > "From a mechanical, software, electronic standpoint, I cannot think of any possible combination of events that could cause what happened when it happened." However, some experts and pilot advocacy groups warn against drawing premature conclusions. The Air Line Pilots Association emphasized the need for a thorough and exhaustive evaluation of all factors, stating that speculation could undermine the investigation.

The preliminary report ruled out fuel contamination and incorrect wing flap settings as causes, and noted that the lowered landing gear was consistent with engine power loss. Cockpit voice recordings captured one pilot questioning the other about the switch movements, but did not specify who spoke. Media reports suggesting the captain was responsible have been criticized by investigators and pilot organizations as speculative. Jennifer Homendy, chair of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, called such reports premature.

The investigation also revisited previous safety bulletins about the engine fuel control switches, but inspections of Air India’s 787 fleet found no mechanical issues. Experts noted that the switches are designed to be difficult to move accidentally. John Nance, a former pilot and aviation safety analyst, said the facts presented in the preliminary report suggest deliberate human action, as the switches were moved in quick succession and later reset in an attempt to restart the engines. Still, he and others caution that the investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are now reviewing the pilots’ medical histories and personal backgrounds, as well as flight data and cockpit recordings, to determine whether the act was intentional or accidental. Jeff Guzzetti, a former accident investigator, noted that it is too early to conclude motive or intent, stating, > "I know the easiest, most plausible theory is an intentional act to crash the airplane, but I just think it’s way too early. I think there needs to be a lot of thought behind why they would have moved those switches."

Authorities expect it may take months before a final report is released, and have urged caution against speculation until all evidence is thoroughly examined.