Preliminary report reveals fuel supply was cut shortly before Air India crash.

A preliminary report reveals critical details surrounding the tragic Air India plane crash that occurred in June 2025, resulting in the loss of at least 260 lives near Ahmedabad, India. The findings, released by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, highlight a series of alarming events that unfolded during the aircraft’s takeoff.

According to the report, both engines of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner experienced simultaneous shutdowns just one second apart. The fuel control switches that govern engine power transitioned from the “run” to “cutoff” settings during ascent. Although the switches reverted to “run,” the aircraft ultimately crashed while one engine was in the process of regaining thrust.

Cockpit voice recordings have suggested a moment of confusion between the pilots in the moments preceding the crash. One pilot inquired about the decision to cut off the fuel supply, to which the other pilot denied having made such a choice. The report clarifies that both pilots were deemed fit to operate the aircraft, having taken an adequate rest period prior to the flight and successfully passing preflight breathalyzer tests. At the time of the incident, the first officer was at the controls while the captain monitored the takeoff.

The preliminary assessment also noted that the aircraft’s takeoff weight was within permissible limits and that there were no hazardous materials on board. Furthermore, there was no significant bird activity noted along the flight path, which typically poses a risk during takeoff.

The investigation is being supported by agencies from the United States and the United Kingdom, given the tragic loss of lives on board, including several citizens from these nations. Boeing and General Electric, the engine manufacturer, have pledged their assistance in the ongoing investigation, though they have been constrained in their public commentary due to the sensitive nature of the inquiry.

As the aircraft was specifically a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, this crash has marked a grim milestone as the first fatal incident involving this model, which is recognized for its advanced technology and efficiency as a widebody aircraft. While the initial findings focus on the fuel control systems, further investigation is expected to explore a broader spectrum of factors contributing to this devastating accident.

With investigators diligently seeking answers, the aviation industry and the traveling public remain anxious for further information regarding the mechanics that led to this unusual failure during flight. The findings thus far have sparked discussions among aviation experts, who are exploring a variety of hypotheses as they await additional data from the inquiry.

This comprehensive report underscores the critical importance of aviation safety protocols and the ongoing efforts of authorities to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.