On Thursday afternoon, Air India flight AI-171 crashed just seconds after taking off from Ahmedabad airport en route to London. The shocking incident has raised serious concerns across the global aviation industry. What has surprised experts even more is that the crash involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, one of the world’s most advanced and safest passenger aircraft, which went down in less than a minute of flight time.
First-Ever Crash of a Boeing 787
According to an AP report, this was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, considered one of the most modern and reliable passenger jets. Aviation Safety Network data indicates that this is the first major crash involving this aircraft model, marking a dark chapter in its otherwise excellent track record.
Expert Analysis: Take-off Configuration Under Scrutiny
American aviation safety expert John M. Cox stated that the initial investigation will focus on whether the aircraft was properly configured for take-off. He noted that in the blurry footage circulating online, the plane’s nose is seen lifting, but instead of climbing, it appears to fall — indicating that it failed to generate adequate lift.
He added that investigators will examine the positioning of the “slats and flaps”, which are essential for increasing lift during take-off. Cox remarked, “From the images, it doesn’t look like the flaps were in the right position, although the image quality makes it hard to be certain. But this will be a key focus during the probe.”
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Only One Survivor Found Alive
The Air India flight had 234 passengers onboard, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani. Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik told ANI that one person in seat 11A was found alive and has been hospitalized. He said, “It’s too early to confirm the exact number of fatalities. The plane crashed into a residential area, and casualties may rise.”
Boeing Responds
Boeing issued a statement:
“We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders, and everyone affected.”
Also Read-: Air India Flight Crash, 265 People Declared Dead — Major Updates on Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Ongoing Safety Concerns Around Boeing
Major American newspaper The Seattle Times has previously highlighted safety concerns within Boeing’s factories. One report pointed to negligence that caused a blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight. Whistleblowers have testified before the U.S. Congress, alleging criminal cover-ups and claiming the company prioritised Wall Street profits over passenger safety.
Boeing even struck a deal with the U.S. Department of Justice to avoid a full trial in the 737 Max crash cases, raising further questions about its internal safety practices.
A Wake-Up Call for the Entire Aviation System
This crash isn’t just a technical failure — it raises serious questions about the global aviation system. When one of the most modern aircraft crashes moments after takeoff, it shakes public confidence and demands full accountability.