Air India Flight AI171 Crash Near Ahmedabad
On June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The flight was headed to London Gatwick Airport with 242 people on board. The pilot issued a mayday call shortly after takeoff, but the aircraft fell just 625 feet into a nearby residential area. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787, introduced in 2007, is a next-generation, long-haul jet designed for efficiency. It features a carbon fibre composite structure, making it lighter than traditional aluminium aircraft. The aircraft consumes 25 per cent less fuel than its predecessors. The first commercial flight took place in 2012 after delays due to supply chain issues and technical problems. The 787 comes in three variants – 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10.
Features and Specifications
The 787-8 variant, involved in the crash, can accommodate up to 248 passengers and has a range of 13,530 km. It measures 57 metres in length and has a wingspan of 60 metres. The aircraft is powered by GEnx-1B or Trent 1000 engines. The Dreamliner is known for its spacious cabins, large windows, and improved cabin humidity and pressure levels.
Safety Concerns and Investigations
Boeing 787s have faced safety scrutiny over the years. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has conducted multiple investigations regarding safety issues. Allegations from whistleblowers have raised concerns about the aircraft’s fuselage assembly and the quality of parts used in production. In May 2024, the FAA announced a re-inspection of all 787s still in production.
Previous Safety Incidents
The Dreamliner has been linked to several safety incidents. In March 2024, a Latam Airlines 787 experienced a mid-flight plunge due to human error. In 2013, the entire fleet of Boeing 787s was grounded globally due to concerns over lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, Boeing has been under scrutiny following the fatal crashes of its 737 Max aircraft in 2018 and 2019.
Implications for Air Travel
The crash of flight AI171 raises questions about the safety of modern aircraft. It marks the need for stringent safety measures and regulations in the aviation industry. The incident may impact public perception of Boeing and could lead to increased demand for transparency in aircraft manufacturing and maintenance.
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VIJAYALAKSHMI
June 13, 2025 at 12:10 pmVERY USEFUL ONE.