Air India AI-171 crash: Pilots' body seeks representation on panel reviewing draft final probe report

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has written to the union civil aviation minister, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, requesting representation on an independent committee that will review the draft final investigation report on the Air India AI-171 crash. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed in Ahmedabad moments after takeoff on June 12, 2025, resulting in 260 fatalities.

In a letter dated September 25, the pilots' body stated that they have learned the government or ministry is considering requiring the draft final investigation report to undergo examination by an independent committee before it is finalized. The FIP seeks to be formally nominated and represented on this committee. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is preparing the report after over a year of investigation.

The government informed the Supreme Court that the AAIB is expected to complete the probe within six weeks, with a draft final report ready by October. The report cannot be released immediately and must be circulated to states participating in the probe, including the US' National Transportation Safety Board, for their comments. The consultation process could take 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the responses.