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New Evidence Indicates Air India Pilot Reduced Fuel Before Fatal Crash

New Evidence Indicates Air India Pilot Reduced Fuel Before Fatal Crash
A recent report by the Wall Street Journal has brought new insights into the tragic Air India crash last month that resulted in the deaths of 270 people. Building on preliminary findings from Indian authorities, the report reveals that the flight’s captain deliberately switched off the aircraft’s fuel-control switches shortly after takeoff. This critical action has become a focal point in the ongoing investigation into the disaster.
Insights from Black Box Recordings
On June 12, Air India Flight 171, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed soon after departing Ahmedabad, India. The catastrophe claimed 241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board, along with 29 individuals on the ground. Among the victims was a four-year-old child, while one passenger, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, survived with minor injuries.
Sources familiar with the investigation have disclosed that black box recordings captured a tense exchange between Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, aged 56, and First Officer Clive Kunder, aged 32. According to reports from the Wall Street Journal and ABC News, the first officer, who was piloting the Boeing 787 Dreamliner at the time, questioned the captain after he moved the fuel-control switches to the “cutoff” position immediately following takeoff. Kunder reportedly expressed shock and panic, whereas Sabharwal remained composed. The switches, which regulate fuel flow to the aircraft’s two engines, were turned off in rapid succession—approximately one second apart—and then reactivated about ten seconds later. Despite the brief duration, this interruption in fuel supply caused a catastrophic loss of engine thrust, which investigators believe was a direct factor in the crash.
Scrutiny of Pilot Actions and Cockpit Procedures
Aviation experts and investigators are meticulously examining the sequence of events and cockpit procedures leading up to the tragedy. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India noted in its preliminary report that the black box recorded one pilot questioning the other’s actions, though it did not clarify whether the fuel cutoff was accidental or intentional. However, sources cited by the Wall Street Journal indicate that Captain Sabharwal was responsible for switching off the fuel.
The AAIB has cautioned against premature conclusions, emphasizing that the investigation remains ongoing and that it is “too early to reach any definite conclusions.” Nevertheless, the focus on the captain’s actions has raised significant questions regarding cockpit communication, crew resource management, and adherence to standard operating procedures during critical phases of flight.
Public Reaction and Continuing Investigation
The emergence of this new evidence has ignited debate among aviation experts and the public. On Thursday, three aviation specialists appeared on Megyn Kelly’s show to analyze the findings and discuss whether the pilot’s actions were deliberate. The absence of clear answers has intensified speculation, particularly amid concerns about transparency in the investigative process.
As authorities continue to reconstruct the final moments of Flight 171, the tragedy has renewed attention on cockpit protocols and the vital importance of clear communication between flight crew members during emergencies. The investigation remains active, with officials striving to uncover the full circumstances surrounding one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters.

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