Air India Flight AI-171 crashed just 32 seconds after takeoff after both engines abruptly lost power when their fuel control switches were moved from the “RUN” position to “CUTOFF,” according to findings from the preliminary investigation.
The early report indicates that the switches were not activated simultaneously but were moved one after the other, approximately one second apart. This sequential action halted the flow of fuel to the engines, causing them to shut down within moments of liftoff, leaving the aircraft without the thrust required to continue climbing.
Investigators emphasized that no mechanical or structural fault has so far been discovered in the aircraft. Initial technical examinations found the engines and related systems to be functioning normally prior to the sudden interruption in fuel supply.
Aviation experts note that shifting fuel control switches to the cutoff position during the critical takeoff phase would immediately starve the engines, an event from which recovery would be extremely difficult at such low altitude and limited airspeed.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, with further analysis focused on cockpit actions, procedural factors, and any additional evidence that could explain how and why the switches were moved during one of the most sensitive stages of flight.
