A chilling video has surfaced online showing malfunctioning in-flight systems aboard the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner that later crashed in a deadly fireball shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick.
Passenger Captures Failing Systems on Air India Flight Before Crash
Passenger Akash Vatsa, who flew on the ill-fated aircraft just hours before the crash, shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) revealing major electrical issues. He reported that the air conditioning, TV screens, and even the cabin crew call buttons were not functioning. “Nothing is working, not even the light,” Vatsa said in the clip, which he initially recorded to file a complaint with Air India.
The plane, identified by its registration code VT-ANB, was operating Flight 171 from Delhi to Ahmedabad before departing for London. Tragically, it crashed moments after takeoff around 1:40 PM local time, killing all on board and causing multiple casualties on the ground.
Flight Data, Crash Impact, and Expert Analysis
According to aviation authorities, the flight issued a mayday call shortly after liftoff before plunging into a residential area housing medical professionals from BJ Medical College and Civil Hospital. Eyewitness footage captured the aircraft descending with its nose up and landing gear down before erupting in flames upon impact.
Experts suggest the crash could be the result of a bird strike, engine failure, or poor lift performance. Former US Air Force pilot Lt. Col. John R. Davidson commented on the low altitude and high-speed readings, suggesting a stall or steep dive occurred right after takeoff.
Captain Saurabh Bhatnagar, a former Air India pilot, said the aircraft’s sudden loss of altitude suggests both engines may have failed simultaneously—possibly due to multiple bird strikes.
Investigation Underway as Air India Faces Scrutiny
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has begun analyzing the crash site and retrieving the aircraft’s black box. This marks the first-ever crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a model known for its fuel efficiency and long-haul capabilities.
The aircraft was commanded by veteran pilot Captain Summeet Sabharwal, who had over 8,200 flying hours. Boeing, the manufacturer of the 787 Dreamliner, released a statement saying it is working closely with Air India and authorities to uncover the cause of the crash.
Air India Under Pressure Amid Fleet Expansion
Air India recently placed a major aircraft order, including 220 Boeing jets and 250 Airbus planes, as part of its ambitious fleet modernization plan. This incident raises serious questions about aircraft maintenance and operational standards at the airline.