India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), backed by federal agencies and international experts, is actively exploring seven potential sabotage scenarios concerning the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI‑171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport on June 12. The tragedy claimed 242 lives aboard and 19 on the ground.
Why Sabotage Is Being Considered
Dual-engine failure immediately after takeoff—an event described by aviation specialists as a “one in a billion occurrence”—has prompted investigators to review every angle, including deliberate wrongdoing. Authorities assert that with simpler explanations proving less likely, comprehensive sabotage lines of inquiry are essential.
The Seven Angles Under Scrutin
Agencies are systematically ruling out each of the following potential sabotage scenarios:
- Tampered Fuel Chain – Forensic tests are underway to detect chemical adulteration during fuel storage or transport.
- Maintenance Malpractice – Investigators are auditing maintenance logs, tools, and technician records to trace possible intentional damage or negligence.
- Cyber‑physical Manipulation – Digital systems like engine controllers and onboard computers are being scanned for malware or unauthorized code.
- Security Breach – Analysts are reviewing access logs, CCTV feeds, and staff clearances to detect unauthorized presence near the aircraft.
- Cargo‑loaded Motive – Cargo manifests are under scrutiny to identify high-value or sensitive shipments that might provide motive.
- External Interference – The probe includes possible involvement of hostile actors using methods like GPS spoofing or signal jamming.
- ATC Interference – Air traffic control protocols, communication records, and signal consistency are being examined for possible deception or jamming.
In addition to these, the AAIB is simultaneously recovering details from the recovered black boxes—including cockpit voice and flight data recorders—to decode the sequence of technical and human events.
Collaborative, Multi‑agency Investigation
The AAIB is coordinating with the National Transport Safety Board (NTSB) of the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Boeing. Initial findings suggest all 33 Dreamliners in India’s fleet have passed safety inspection post-crash. Regional and global aviation bodies, including ICAO, have been notified; India declined observer status from ICAO and confirmed all investigative work remains in its jurisdiction.
Civil Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol stated that until the investigation concludes—expected within 90 days—it remains premature to affirm a mechanical fault, fuel issue, or sabotage.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.