The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has announced the successful recovery and secure transfer of both black boxes from the recent Air India Flight AI-171 crash, a crucial development in the ongoing investigation.
In line with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017 and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13, a multidisciplinary team was established on June 13, 2025. This team, led by the AAIB’s Director General, comprises experts in various fields, including aviation medicine and air traffic control, as well as representatives from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), given that the aircraft was manufactured in the United States.
The recovery process began with the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), which was found on a building rooftop at the crash site on June 13. The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) followed, being retrieved from the wreckage on June 16. To ensure their safety, both recorders were initially stored in Ahmedabad under constant police surveillance and CCTV monitoring before being airlifted to Delhi by the Indian Air Force on June 24.
Upon their arrival in Delhi, the CVR was received by the AAIB’s laboratory at 2:00 PM, followed by the FDR at 5:15 PM. Technical teams from both the AAIB and NTSB swiftly commenced data extraction, successfully retrieving the Crash Protection Module and downloading data from the CVR on June 25.
The analysis of the black box data is now in progress, aimed at reconstructing the events leading to the crash. This analysis is pivotal for identifying any contributing factors and ensuring accountability, all while striving to enhance aviation safety standards.
Authorities have reiterated that all investigative procedures are being conducted in strict accordance with Indian law and international obligations. They emphasize a commitment to transparency and timeliness in the ongoing investigation.
