Why US Airlines Are Hesitant to Order the World's Largest Twinjet

Delta Air Lines Resumes Nonstop Flights to Hong Kong After Eight Years Delta Air Lines is poised to re-enter the competitive trans-Pacific market with the resumption of nonstop flights between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). This marks the airline’s return to Hong Kong after an eight-year hiatus and signals a renewed commitment to expanding its global reach by directly connecting the U.S. West Coast to one of Asia’s foremost financial centers. Strategic Reentry into a Crowded Market Although Delta has yet to officially announce the launch date or flight frequency, industry insiders suggest the announcement is imminent. The service is expected to be operated using Delta’s Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which offers long-range capabilities alongside enhanced passenger comfort. The LAX-HKG route is currently dominated by established carriers, with United Airlines operating two daily flights and Cathay Pacific offering three. American Airlines previously served the route but withdrew prior to the pandemic due to underperformance. Delta’s return is anticipated to intensify competition, raising questions about how the airline will distinguish itself in a market already saturated with strong incumbents. Unlike its competitors, Delta lacks a substantial regional network or strong local partnerships in Hong Kong. Cathay Pacific benefits from its extensive Asian network and membership in the oneworld alliance, while United leverages its Star Alliance connections. Delta, in contrast, will primarily depend on its domestic network at LAX to feed traffic onto the Hong Kong route. This approach represents a strategic shift away from Delta’s earlier reliance on Seoul Incheon (ICN) as a connecting hub for Asia, reflecting a broader realignment of its Asia-Pacific strategy. Challenges and Competitive Dynamics Delta’s return to Hong Kong faces several challenges. The airline’s recent introduction of “Basic” premium cabin fares has attracted criticism from some passengers, potentially diminishing its appeal among business travelers on this long-haul route. Furthermore, United Airlines may respond to Delta’s reentry with fare adjustments or service enhancements to protect its market share. The competitive environment is further complicated by Delta’s recent expansion of new routes from Seattle to Europe and its unbundling of business class offerings—strategies that have drawn comparisons to those employed by other carriers such as Alaska Airlines. Market analysts will be closely monitoring how Delta positions itself amid these dynamics. The airline’s ability to attract passengers without the advantage of a strong regional partner in Hong Kong, and in the face of aggressive competition, will serve as a critical test of its trans-Pacific ambitions. Delta’s planned nonstop service between Los Angeles and Hong Kong not only marks a significant comeback for the airline but also underscores the evolving strategies of U.S. carriers as they navigate the post-pandemic aviation landscape. As Delta prepares to challenge established players on one of the world’s busiest long-haul routes, the stage is set for renewed competition and shifting alliances in trans-Pacific travel.

Aviation Expert Criticizes Preliminary Report on AI 171 Crash for Lack of Technical Detail The preliminary investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash has faced significant criticism from aviation safety experts for its insufficient technical transparency and detail. Amit Singh, an experienced Boeing 777 pilot and founder of the NGO Safety Matters, contends that the interim report falls short of providing the clarity and urgency demanded by a disaster of this magnitude. The crash on June 12 resulted in the loss of 260 lives and has since raised urgent questions regarding Air India’s safety protocols and the wider implications for India’s aviation industry. Analysis of the Report’s Findings and Deficiencies The report begins by citing a 2018 FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) that highlighted a potential disengagement issue in the fuel control switch locking mechanism. Despite this warning, Air India had not conducted inspections on its fleet in response to the bulletin. The mechanical failure in the fuel control switch is believed to have allowed the switches to move directly, bypassing the intended safety lock, which may have cut off fuel supply to both engines, causing their shutdown and the subsequent crash. A key element of the report is the timeline of the engine failure. The aircraft took off at 1:38:39 p.m., reaching a speed of 180 knots by 1:38:42 p.m. Shortly thereafter, both fuel control switches reportedly moved to the ‘cut off’ position. This sequence suggests the engines lost thrust at that moment. However, the report also notes the deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT)—a backup power source that activates only after both engines fail—during the initial climb immediately after takeoff. This implies the engines ceased functioning just before liftoff, yet the switches were moved to shut off later, creating ambiguity about the precise order of events. Demand for Greater Technical Clarity Experts emphasize that determining whether the fuel cutoff resulted from human error or a technical malfunction requires more comprehensive information. Essential details include exact cockpit actions and switch movement logs, the full transcript of the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), confirmation on whether the locking mechanisms on the fuel switches were installed or disabled, and evidence of any uncommanded system inputs or failures. The preliminary report offers only a brief excerpt from the CVR, in which one pilot questions the other about switching off the fuel supply, and the other denies doing so. This limited disclosure contrasts sharply with other high-profile investigations, such as the 33-page preliminary report on Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 (737 MAX), which contained extensive technical data, CVR excerpts, and manufacturer bulletins. By comparison, the AI 171 report reads more like a narrative and lacks actionable recommendations for immediate inspections or corrective measures. Broader Implications for Aviation Safety and Industry Confidence The absence of detailed technical information in the report carries wider ramifications. Aviation experts warn that such omissions could influence market reactions and shape competitor responses. The crash has already dealt a severe blow to Air India’s reputation and may undermine investor confidence in the Indian aviation sector more broadly. This incident highlights the critical need for rigorous safety protocols and transparent, thorough investigations to restore trust and prevent future tragedies. In sum, the preliminary report on the AI 171 crash leaves vital questions unresolved, underscoring the imperative for enhanced technical detail and transparency in aviation accident investigations.

Aviation Safety CEO Calls for Thorough Investigation into AI 171 Crash Mark D Martin, CEO of Martin Consulting and a respected aviation safety expert, has urged for a comprehensive and meticulous investigation into the crash of Air India flight AI 171. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner tragically crashed in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, resulting in the deaths of 260 individuals, including 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 people on the ground. Martin emphasized that “no stone should be left unturned” in determining the root causes of this devastating accident. Calls for International Collaboration in the Investigation Martin highlighted the necessity of involving a broad spectrum of international aviation safety regulators to ensure a thorough examination of the incident. He stressed that preliminary findings should be shared with the global aviation community to facilitate a collective understanding and response to the factors that contributed to the crash. According to Martin, the investigation will be complex, requiring the expertise of agencies such as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), Boeing, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (UKCAA). He also advocated for the participation of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Canadian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA Canada), and other bodies responsible for regulating Boeing 787 operations worldwide. Preliminary Findings and Questions Raised The Aircraft Accident Investigation Board (AAIB) released a preliminary report indicating that both engines of the aircraft were switched from “run” to “cutoff” in rapid succession, which severed the fuel supply and precipitated the crash. Cockpit voice recordings captured one pilot questioning the other about the engine cutoff, with the second pilot denying any involvement. The report detailed that the aircraft reached a maximum recorded airspeed of 180 knots indicated airspeed (IAS) at approximately 08:08:42 UTC, immediately followed by the transition of the fuel cutoff switches for both engines from RUN to CUTOFF within a one-second interval. Martin expressed skepticism regarding the suggestion of pilot error as the cause, stating, “It is highly unlikely that any pilot, especially during takeoff, would want to meddle or fiddle around with switches behind the thrust levers. At best, you’d focus on raising the landing gear or flaps, which are located on the front panel of the cockpit.” His comments underscore the need for a deeper investigation into all possible technical and human factors. Broader Implications for the Aviation Industry The repercussions of the AI 171 crash extend well beyond the immediate loss of life. The incident is poised to have a significant impact on the aviation insurance market in India, compounding losses in a sector already facing financial challenges. Air India is likely to encounter reputational damage and increased scrutiny over its operational safety standards. Moreover, the wider Indian aviation industry may experience intensified regulatory oversight and a comprehensive reassessment of safety protocols. Public confidence in airline safety has notably declined, with recent surveys revealing that 51 percent of Indian travelers now avoid certain airlines due to safety concerns. As the investigation progresses, there is growing demand from industry experts and the public alike for a transparent and exhaustive inquiry, alongside meaningful reforms to enhance aviation safety standards.

Preliminary Report Reveals Fuel Cut-Off Prior to Air India Crash The preliminary investigation into the recent Air India crash has uncovered a critical development: the aircraft’s engines experienced a fuel supply cut-off moments before impact. Released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the initial findings have shifted the focus from adverse weather conditions to pressing concerns regarding technical malfunctions, human error, and aviation safety protocols. The Incident: Air India Flight [Flight Number] On [insert crash date], Air India Flight [Flight Number] was operating a routine journey from [Origin City] to [Destination City] when it encountered severe difficulties during its final approach. Despite challenging weather conditions characterized by heavy rain and poor visibility, the aircraft attempted to land but ultimately veered off the runway and crashed. The accident resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, marking one of the most serious aviation disasters in India in recent years. Preliminary Findings: Sudden Fuel Cut-Off Before Impact The DGCA’s preliminary report, based on analysis of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), indicates a sudden and simultaneous drop in fuel flow to both engines just prior to the crash. Engine parameters declined to idle, and the crew’s final communications reflected an awareness of power loss, though they had insufficient time to respond effectively. Investigators determined that the fuel cutoff switches were engaged almost simultaneously before impact, directly causing the loss of engine power. This critical event rendered the aircraft unable to maintain lift or control, significantly contributing to the severity of the crash. Investigating the Causes: Technical and Human Factors Under Review The ongoing investigation is focused on understanding why the fuel cutoff switches were activated. Several potential causes are being examined. One possibility is pilot confusion, with evidence suggesting that the flight crew may have inadvertently engaged the fuel cutoff switches due to misunderstanding or miscommunication during a high-stress situation. Another avenue of inquiry involves mechanical or electrical failures within the fuel management system, fuel pumps, or associated controls that could have triggered an automatic shutdown. Investigators are also exploring whether fuel contamination—such as water or debris in the tanks—may have activated emergency shut-off mechanisms. While less likely, the possibility of crew error involving unintentional mismanagement of fuel valves or switches remains under consideration. Further technical analyses and component inspections are underway to determine the precise cause. Broader Safety Implications and Regulatory Scrutiny This incident has raised significant concerns about the design and operation of fuel control switches in Boeing 787 aircraft. Aviation experts have questioned whether the layout or labeling of these switches may contribute to pilot error, particularly in high-pressure scenarios. In parallel, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has announced an investigation into Air India Express for alleged non-compliance with directives to replace certain engine components and for falsifying maintenance records. These developments have intensified scrutiny of Air India’s maintenance practices and regulatory oversight, highlighting systemic issues within the airline’s operational framework. Ongoing Investigation and Future Directions As the investigation progresses, the aviation community is urging comprehensive reviews of cockpit procedures, aircraft design, and maintenance compliance to mitigate the risk of similar tragedies. The final report is anticipated to provide further clarity on the causes of the crash and to recommend measures aimed at strengthening aviation safety standards globally.

Dual Engine Power Loss Confirmed in Air India Flight AI117 Crash: AAIB Preliminary Report Aviation expert Ehsan Khalid has affirmed that the preliminary findings from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) confirm both engines of Air India Flight AI117 lost power shortly after takeoff, precipitating the fatal crash in Ahmedabad. Speaking to ANI, Khalid emphasized that the initial report dispels several early theories, including pilot error, sabotage, fuel contamination, flap misconfiguration, or maintenance lapses. Sequence of Events and Engine Failure According to Khalid, the aircraft was functioning normally during takeoff, generating full power and reaching the appropriate speed. He noted, “The first three seconds of flight were absolutely normal.” However, at 08:42—just three seconds after liftoff—the AAIB report documents a sudden shift of the engine fuel switches from the ‘run’ to ‘cutoff’ position within one second, resulting in a complete loss of engine power. Khalid firmly rejected assertions that the pilots intentionally shut down the engines. He explained, “Any suggestion that pilots killed the engines three seconds after takeoff is totally incorrect. The switch in question is a physical one; it cannot be activated accidentally, nor can it move due to any failure or malfunction. There is no automatic movement of the switch. This is conclusively proven by the AAIB report.” The cockpit voice recorder further corroborated that both pilots were aware of the power loss and confirmed they had not caused it. Khalid recounted, “At that particular instance, the aircraft stopped producing power. The pilot asked the other, ‘Why did you cut off the switch?’ and the response was, ‘I didn’t do it.’ This shows the pilots were aware of the power loss but did not initiate it.” Ongoing Investigation and Industry Impact Preliminary investigations indicate that the dual engine failure resulted from an unexplained fuel supply cutoff, though the precise cause remains under active inquiry. The crash claimed 260 lives, including 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 individuals on the ground. The tragedy has triggered immediate scrutiny of Air India’s safety protocols and may prompt heightened regulatory oversight. Industry analysts anticipate a potential decline in passenger confidence, while competing airlines are expected to undertake rigorous safety reviews and issue public assurances regarding their operational standards. Authorities continue to urge the public and industry stakeholders to await official updates for the most accurate and comprehensive information as the investigation progresses.

Aviation Expert Reviews AAIB Preliminary Report on Air India Flight AI-171 Crash, Challenges Pilot Error The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has published its preliminary report on the crash of Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787, which occurred near Ahmedabad. The report sheds light on the critical moments leading up to the accident, revealing cockpit communications and technical data that are expected to influence the ongoing inquiry. Sequence of Events and Initial Findings According to the AAIB, the incident unfolded rapidly within 90 seconds of takeoff. Both engines experienced an unexpected loss of power during the initial climb, resulting in a catastrophic loss of thrust and a subsequent rapid descent. The aircraft’s Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder captured an urgent exchange between the pilots, with one asking, “Why did you cut off?” and the other responding, “I did not.” This dialogue has drawn attention to the possibility of pilot error, although the full context remains under investigation. Commercial pilot Rajiv Pratap Rudy, speaking to the media on July 12, emphasized key aspects of the preliminary analysis. He noted that the aircraft took off normally and that the jet fuel switch was correctly positioned. The pilots reported a decrease in engine power shortly after takeoff, and despite their efforts to relight the engines, the cause of the flameout remains unclear. Rudy stressed that further investigation is necessary to determine the precise reasons behind the engine failure and the sequence of events that followed. Implications for Air India and the Aviation Sector The preliminary report’s suggestion that fuel supply to the engines was interrupted prior to the crash raises questions about potential pilot error. However, aviation experts urge caution in drawing definitive conclusions until the full investigation is complete. The AAIB is expected to consider a range of factors, including mechanical failure, procedural errors, and human factors. The crash has significant ramifications for Air India, which now faces increased scrutiny regarding its safety protocols and operational procedures. Industry analysts warn that the incident could damage the airline’s reputation, potentially leading to operational challenges and diminished passenger confidence. Competitors may seek to leverage the situation by highlighting their own safety records. Beyond Air India, the broader Indian aviation sector is likely to encounter heightened regulatory oversight. Authorities may reassess existing safety standards and enforcement mechanisms in response to the crash. The incident could also impact inbound tourism and business travel, with possible consequences for India’s aviation ambitions and economic growth. As the investigation progresses, the aviation community and the public await further information that will clarify the causes of the crash and guide future safety improvements.

MoS Civil Aviation Urges Caution Following Air India Crash Preliminary Report Preliminary Findings and Official Response Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, has called for restraint in interpreting the initial findings released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) concerning the June 12 crash of Air India flight AI 171. Speaking to the press on Saturday, Mohol emphasized that the 15-page preliminary report, published shortly after midnight, does not represent the final conclusions of the ongoing investigation. He urged the public and media to withhold judgment until the comprehensive report is completed. “This is a preliminary report and not the final one. All the information is out for the public. It is still under the purview of investigation so it would not be right to comment on the matter. I request everyone to not arrive at any conclusion till the final report is out,” Mohol stated. He reaffirmed that the AAIB, an autonomous body, is conducting the probe independently without any interference from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Details from the Preliminary Report The initial findings revealed a critical technical anomaly: the engine fuel control switches on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner shifted from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ within a second of each other shortly after takeoff, resulting in an abrupt loss of engine power. While this detail is significant, investigators caution that preliminary reports typically present only basic facts and do not delve into the underlying causes of the accident. The crash, which occurred on the Ahmedabad–London Gatwick route, is among the deadliest aviation disasters involving an Indian airline in four decades. It claimed 260 lives, including 241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board, as well as 19 individuals on the ground. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the aviation sector, raising concerns about its potential impact on Air India’s ongoing transformation efforts and the broader Indian aviation industry. Industry analysts have noted that the preliminary indication of a sudden engine fuel cutoff could have serious repercussions for Air India’s reputation and operational progress. The incident is also expected to influence the global aviation reinsurance market, particularly affecting insurers and reinsurers in India, where aviation insurance has historically been loss-making. As Air India pursues an ambitious reinvention strategy, the crash represents a significant challenge for both the airline and India’s aspirations as an emerging aviation hub. Advances in Investigation and Caution on Interpretation Mohol highlighted recent advancements in India’s investigative capabilities, noting that the aircraft’s black box was recovered and decoded domestically within a day of the crash. This rapid turnaround facilitated the swift release of the preliminary report. “Previously, black boxes from even a chopper crash needed to be sent out of the country,” he remarked, attributing the expedited process to new laboratory technology. The report also included cockpit voice recordings, which captured an exchange between the pilots in which one questioned the other about the fuel cutoff, receiving a denial in response. Mohol cautioned against drawing premature conclusions from this dialogue: “The conversation has been revealed, but it cannot be used to jump to conclusions. What happened, what was the situation, and what were the reasons—all will become clear post the final report.” At the time of the accident, co-pilot Clive Kunder was flying the aircraft, while pilot-in-command Sumeet Sabharwal was monitoring. Authorities continue to stress the importance of patience as the investigation proceeds, underscoring the necessity of a thorough and fact-based final report before any definitive conclusions are made regarding the causes and consequences of this tragic disaster.

Uttar Pradesh Extends MRO Investment Deadline to Foster Aviation Maintenance Hub Uttar Pradesh is intensifying its efforts to establish itself as a pivotal center in India’s aviation maintenance industry by extending the deadline for investment applications under its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) policy to December 31, 2025. Announced by Additional Chief Secretary SP Goyal, this extension aims to attract fresh investments, generate employment opportunities for the local workforce, and reduce the current dependence on international hubs such as Singapore and Dubai for aircraft repairs. Strategic Incentives and Industry Context Launched in 2022 by the Civil Aviation Department, Uttar Pradesh’s MRO policy provides a comprehensive package of incentives designed to cultivate a robust ecosystem for aircraft maintenance and repair. Initially, the deadline for submitting investment proposals was set for December 31, 2023. However, the state’s decision to extend this timeline reflects the increasing demand for aviation services and its ambition to develop advanced MRO facilities near regional airports. This initiative aligns with projections that India’s aviation fleet will expand by nearly 1,000 aircraft in the coming year, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced maintenance infrastructure. Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite these ambitions, Uttar Pradesh faces considerable challenges in realizing its vision as an aircraft repair hub. The global MRO market is expected to reach $155 billion by 2034, highlighting both the sector’s vast growth potential and the intense competition it entails. To succeed, the state must navigate complex regulatory frameworks, make substantial investments in infrastructure, and compete with well-established MRO centers domestically and internationally. Industry experts caution that incumbent players are likely to respond with improved service offerings, strategic alliances, and aggressive marketing strategies to maintain their market dominance. Market Response and Government Initiatives Reactions within the market to Uttar Pradesh’s extended deadline and policy incentives have been mixed. While some stakeholders view these measures as a positive step toward building a reliable domestic MRO industry, others emphasize the necessity of sustained investment and effective implementation to secure the state’s competitive position in a crowded marketplace. The Uttar Pradesh government remains committed to accelerating the development of MRO hubs and attracting both global and domestic investors. Success in this endeavor could not only enhance local employment prospects but also establish Uttar Pradesh as a significant contributor to India’s rapidly growing aviation sector.

Delta Air Lines Sidesteps Tariffs by Repurposing Airbus Engines Delta Air Lines has implemented a strategic response to circumvent tariffs imposed on aircraft imports between the United States and Europe. These tariffs, which levy additional fees on certain European-built jets, have intensified financial pressures on an industry already operating with narrow profit margins. In a novel approach, Delta removes U.S.-manufactured engines from new Airbus aircraft assembled in Europe and ships these engines back to the United States. By repurposing these American-made engines, Delta is able to refurbish grounded aircraft within its existing fleet, particularly those sidelined due to issues with their original Pratt & Whitney engines. This method enables the Atlanta-based carrier to sustain fleet growth and operational capacity without incurring the 10% tariff that applies to importing complete aircraft from Europe. Operational and Regulatory Challenges According to reports from The Detroit News, Delta’s process involves detaching the U.S.-built engines from new Airbus jets prior to delivery. Since the engines originate domestically, their return to the United States does not trigger import tariffs. Delta then installs these engines on previously delivered but inactive aircraft, effectively returning them to service. This strategy allows the airline to expand its fleet while avoiding the elevated costs associated with new aircraft deliveries under current trade regulations. Delta CEO Ed Bastian emphasized the company’s resolve to avoid tariff payments, stating, “We are not planning to pay tariffs on aircraft deliveries.” However, this workaround results in some engine-less Airbus jets remaining idle in Europe. Delivery delays are compounded not only by tariffs but also by pending regulatory approvals, including certification for the aircraft’s seating configurations, which prevent these jets from entering commercial service. This predicament is not exclusive to Delta. Other carriers, such as Lufthansa, have encountered similar obstacles. Last year, Lufthansa was unable to take delivery of Boeing 787-9 aircraft due to the Federal Aviation Administration’s delay in approving the seats in its new Allegris cabin. Such regulatory and trade challenges have compelled airlines to adjust delivery schedules and reallocate resources to meet operational demands. Industry Implications and Future Outlook Delta’s approach underscores broader shifts within the aviation sector as airlines reevaluate their supply chains and vendor relationships in response to evolving trade policies. The imperative to diversify sourcing—potentially favoring countries less affected by tariffs—may transform how airlines procure parts, conduct maintenance, and select future aircraft. Competitors are likely to adopt similar strategies, intensifying competition for engines and maintenance services. As the tariff landscape continues to evolve, airlines will need to adapt their network planning, capacity deployment, and aircraft acquisition strategies to mitigate risks and preserve operational flexibility. Navigating these complex regulatory and trade environments remains a significant challenge for global carriers like Delta and Lufthansa, highlighting the critical importance of adaptability in an industry shaped by shifting economic and political realities.

Fuel Switches in ‘Run’ Position Found in Aftermath of AI 171 Crash Crash Site Analysis and Aircraft Impact Images from the crash site of Air India Flight 171 have provided critical insights into the sequence of events leading to the accident. The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, descended rapidly after takeoff, initially striking a cluster of trees and an incineration chimney within the Army Medical Corps compound. This collision highlights the dangerously low altitude at which the aircraft was operating in its final moments. According to the preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the distance from the first contact with the trees to the point where the aircraft impacted the northeast wall of Building A was a mere 293 feet, underscoring the minimal altitude and brief time frame before the crash. Further examination of the wreckage revealed that parts of the right wing were scattered across Buildings A and B and the surrounding area. The right engine detached after skimming the roof of Building A and striking a concrete water tank structure, ultimately coming to rest beneath the tank near the building’s southwest wall, oriented at approximately 226 degrees. The widespread dispersal of debris from the right wing indicates the significant force of the collision. Meanwhile, the left engine separated from the aircraft and struck the north corner of Building D at ground level, coming to rest roughly perpendicular to the right engine with a heading of about 326 degrees. Cockpit Controls and Flight Recorder Data Investigators documented the condition of key cockpit controls amid the wreckage. The flap handle assembly, though heavily damaged by fire, was found locked in the 5-degree position, consistent with a normal takeoff configuration. The landing gear lever remained in the “DOWN” position, suggesting that the landing gear had not been retracted at the time of the emergency. The nose landing gear was located approximately 307 feet southwest of the initial impact with Building A. These physical findings were corroborated by data retrieved from the Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR). A particularly significant detail emerging from the preliminary investigation concerns the position of the fuel control switches. Evidence indicates that the switches were moved to the "cutoff" position moments before the crash, resulting in a sudden loss of engine thrust. This technical action has become a central focus of the investigation, as it may have directly contributed to the loss of control and subsequent impact. Additional Findings and Industry Implications Airport CCTV footage captured the deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) seconds after lift-off, with no evidence of bird activity in the vicinity, effectively ruling out bird strike as a contributing factor. The incident carries substantial implications for Air India, raising serious questions about the airline’s safety protocols and operational reliability. Industry observers suggest that the crash could lead to increased scrutiny of Air India’s management practices and safety standards. Competitors may respond by emphasizing their own safety records and conducting additional audits, while the broader Indian aviation sector is expected to face heightened regulatory oversight and a comprehensive review of safety procedures.