A preliminary investigation into the crash of Air India Flight AI-171 reveals a tragic mechanical failure: the pilot’s seat slid backward during takeoff due to a faulty locking mechanism. This caused the captain to unintentionally pull the throttle into idle, cutting engine thrust just seconds after liftoff.
The co-pilot’s efforts to regain control were hampered by the captain’s position, and the Boeing 787 lost lift, crashing into a nearby building. The crash killed 270 people, including passengers, crew, and people on the ground. A British passenger is the only survivor; over 40 others were injured.
Investigators noted missing emergency commands and lack of safety features in the 787’s throttle system. In response, the FAA and EASA ordered urgent seat inspections. Air India grounded 12 planes, and Boeing will redesign the seat by 2026.
The final report is expected in July 2025. Authorities have already pledged major safety reforms, calling the crash a preventable tragedy that must never happen again.
