Investigation Underway Following Air India Boeing 787 Crash

On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, resulting in the deaths of 241 individuals aboard. Reports indicate that the aircraft's landing gear failed to retract, a standard procedure immediately following takeoff, leading to significant scrutiny from aviation safety authorities.

According to Mr. Bob Mann, head of aviation consultancy R.W. Mann and a recognized expert in the field, the aircraft did not achieve adequate thrust as it traversed nearly the entire length of the 3,350-meter runway. This anomaly may have arisen from a misconfiguration of the plane or incorrect weight data entered into its computer system, which is crucial for calculating the necessary power for takeoff. "If the weight is high compared to the actual number, you end up with a very aggressive take-off," Mann stated. He added that until the cockpit voice recorders, which are essential for understanding the incident, are retrieved, his observations remain unofficial.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are actively involved in the investigation, with representatives expected to arrive in India to assist local authorities. Former FAA accident investigation chief Mr. Jeff Guzzetti emphasized the importance of understanding the position of the plane's flaps, which are designed to enhance lift during takeoff. "It is possible that the flaps were mistakenly retracted instead of the landing gear," Guzzetti noted. Without evidence of smoke, fire, or structural failure, it appears that the aircraft was simply unable to gain altitude after leaving the runway.

Initial reports from investigators suggest that incorrect flap positioning could have contributed to the incident. Mann cautioned that adjusting the flaps post-takeoff could lead to an aerodynamic stall, complicating the situation further.

The Air India flight was en route to London, carrying 242 passengers and crew members. Notably, there was one survivor from the catastrophic event. The recovery of the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, commonly referred to as "black boxes," is anticipated to provide critical insights into the final moments of the flight and the condition of the aircraft systems.

This incident has raised significant concerns about aviation safety protocols, particularly regarding takeoff procedures and pre-flight checks. As investigations continue, aviation safety experts and regulatory authorities will focus on understanding the factors that led to this devastating crash, with the aim of preventing similar tragedies in the future.

**Background and Context** The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its advanced technology and fuel efficiency, has been a significant player in the commercial aviation market since its introduction. However, incidents like this underscore the need for stringent safety measures and adherence to protocols, particularly in the wake of increasing air travel demand. Historically, aviation accidents have prompted regulatory bodies to revise safety standards, making this investigation particularly critical.

The implications of this crash extend beyond immediate safety concerns; they touch on the broader aviation industry, which has faced heightened scrutiny following several high-profile incidents in recent years. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air travel is projected to double over the next two decades, emphasizing the need for robust safety mechanisms to keep pace with expanding global travel.

**Conclusion** The Air India crash serves as a grim reminder of the complexities involved in aviation safety and the dire consequences that can arise from procedural oversights. As the investigation unfolds, the findings will likely influence future regulations and operational practices within the aviation industry, aiming to enhance safety and ensure that such tragedies do not recur.