A preliminary investigation into the crash of Air India Flight AI-171 has identified a critical mechanical failure during takeoff. The pilot’s seat unexpectedly slid backward due to a faulty locking mechanism, causing the captain to pull the throttle into idle. This sudden loss of engine thrust occurred just seconds after liftoff, compromising the aircraft’s ability to maintain lift.

As the Boeing 787 began to lose altitude, the co-pilot attempted to take control. However, the captain’s awkward position hindered these efforts. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a nearby building. The tragedy claimed the lives of 270 people, including passengers, crew members, and individuals on the ground. Only one British passenger survived, and more than 40 others sustained injuries.

Investigators found that the aircraft lacked specific safety mechanisms in its throttle system that could have prevented the accident. There were also no emergency override protocols to counteract the unintentional idle command. These findings prompted regulatory agencies to take immediate action to prevent future occurrences.

In response, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) mandated urgent inspections of pilot seats across similar aircraft. Air India grounded 12 of its planes, and Boeing committed to a complete seat redesign by 2026 to address the identified flaws.

The final report on the incident is scheduled for release in July 2025. Meanwhile, authorities have vowed sweeping reforms to enhance aviation safety, labeling the crash as a preventable tragedy that should never have occurred again.