Air India AI-171 Crash: Black Box Data Recovered, Probe Underway!
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has recovered and begun analyzing the black boxes from the Air India AI-171 crash. A joint team including experts from the U.S. NTSB is now investigating the data to uncover the sequence of events that led to the incident.
In the wake of the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has begun a detailed analysis of the recovered black boxes. The agency, operating under international and domestic aviation norms, initiated its investigation on June 13, 2025, the same day the crash occurred.
India, a signatory to the ICAO Chicago Convention (1944), follows global standards under the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017. The AAIB promptly set up a multidisciplinary investigation team led by its Director General.
The team includes aviation medicine experts, air traffic control officers, and representatives from the U.S.-based National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as required under international protocols.
Black Boxes Secured and Transported Under High Security
Investigators recovered both the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) from the crash site in Ahmedabad, one on June 13 and the other on June 16, 2025.
They handled the devices following strict Standard Operating Procedures, with round-the-clock police protection and CCTV surveillance.
On June 24, the black boxes were flown from Ahmedabad to Delhi on an Indian Air Force aircraft. The front black box reached the AAIB Lab in Delhi by 2:00 PM, while the rear box arrived shortly after at 5:15 PM.
Data Extraction Begins, Investigation in Full Swing
The AAIB, along with NTSB technical experts, commenced data extraction on the evening of June 24. The investigation team successfully retrieved the Crash Protection Module (CPM) from the front black box and, by June 25, accessed the internal memory module and downloaded its data.
Analysis of the CVR and FDR data is currently underway. Investigators aim to reconstruct the final moments of the flight to understand the root cause of the crash and recommend safety improvements to prevent future incidents.
Authorities have confirmed that the team is carrying out all procedures in full compliance with both Indian law and international aviation investigation protocols.
Final Thoughts
The swift recovery and analysis of the black boxes mark a crucial step in uncovering the cause of the AI-171 crash, as investigators work diligently to ensure accountability and improve future aviation safety standards.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!
