Article by Viory
Remembrances and Demands
Families gathered in Ahmedabad on Friday to mark one year since the Air India Flight AI171 crash that killed 260 people, with many calling for answers as the investigation into the disaster remains incomplete.
Footage shows around 150 relatives gathering with portraits of their loved ones for the ceremony. The crowd later assembled near the Meghaninagar crash site, offering floral tributes and lighting candles in silent remembrance.
Airline Support Criticised
During the ceremony, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots Captain CS Randhawa criticised what he described as inadequate support for bereaved families.
“It was so painful to hear what they have undergone after the crash to collect even the dead bodies of their loved ones,” Randhawa said. “There is nil support after a few months after the crash and until today the airline has not been interacting with the families.”
The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner went down shortly after take-off on June 12, 2025. The aircraft crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex, killing 241 people on board and 19 people on the ground.
Technical Fault Suspected
Randhawa said investigators were still examining multiple possibilities before publishing their final findings, but disputed suggestions of pilot error.
“Main reason for this crash, we have ruled out any pilot error. This is mainly due to the electrical problems in the aircraft, which have been persistent. There have been a lot of problems in the aircraft,” he asserted.
Patel Anil Kumar Ambala, father of one of the victims, said grieving families were still waiting for definitive answers and justice as questions remain over what caused the disaster.
“No report has been given yet. We don’t even know how the plane crash happened. We want justice for this incident. We are demanding it. We are also appealing to the government to give us justice for it, whatever report comes,” Ambala said.
“It has been almost a year. Still no report, nothing is known, so we are a bit angry with the government. We can say this. Whatever report the government has, it should be cleared quickly,” he added.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s preliminary report found both engine fuel control switches moved from “RUN” to “CUTOFF” seconds after take-off, cutting fuel to the engines. Investigators have not determined what caused the switches to change position.
On the anniversary, the AAIB said the investigation had entered its final analysis stage and urged restraint over speculation while technical examinations continue with international partners.
Article by Viory
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