The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted its preliminary findings on the deadly Air India flight AI171 crash to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and other authorities, according to top sources quoted by ANI.

The report is based on the first phase of the investigation into the June 12 crash, one of the deadliest air disasters in India in recent decades.

Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was traveling from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick when it crashed just moments after takeoff. The accident resulted in the deaths of 241 of the 242 people onboard, along with 19 fatalities on the ground, taking the total death toll to 260.

The incident has shocked the nation and raised concerns about flight safety, particularly on long-haul international routes.

Soon after the crash, Air India’s parent company Tata Sons announced that it would provide ₹1 crore each to the families of those who died.

Later, on June 14, Air India also announced an interim compensation of ₹25 lakh (approximately GBP 21,500) to the families of the deceased as well as survivors, to help them manage urgent financial needs.

Air India reduces international flights

After the crash, Air India said on June 18 that it would cut back 15 percent of its international flights operated by widebody aircraft until mid-July. This decision was linked to operational disruptions caused by ongoing safety inspections, among other factors such as the global geopolitical climate.

In an internal message, the Air India chief addressed the gravity of the tragedy, saying:

"Irrespective of any cause, the accident of AI171 and the loss of so many lives will forever stand as one of our darkest days. It must also signal the start of a new era."

He added that the airline will continue to focus on improvement, stating:

"We will continue to invest in upgrading aircraft, products, services, systems, capabilities, and most of all, people."

The investigation into the cause of the crash is still ongoing, with the final report expected in the coming months.