A passenger’s video has surfaced, showing significant technical malfunctions aboard an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner just hours before it tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The footage, shared on social media, depicts a cabin environment where the air conditioning system is non-functional, forcing passengers to use magazines to fan themselves.
Additionally, in-flight entertainment screens and cabin lighting are reported to be inoperative, raising serious concerns about the aircraft’s maintenance and safety standards. The aircraft involved, registered VT-ANB, was operating Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. The crash resulted in the deaths of 241 individuals on board and 28 on the ground, marking it as India’s deadliest single-plane air disaster. Remarkably, one passenger survived the crash and is receiving medical attention. Passenger Akash Vatsa, who recorded the video, was aboard the same aircraft earlier in the day on a flight from Delhi to Ahmedabad.
He documented the malfunctioning systems to highlight the substandard conditions experienced by passengers. In the video, Vatsa expresses his concerns, stating, “The AC isn’t working – people are using magazines to fan themselves.” He also points out the non-functional entertainment screens and cabin lighting, further emphasizing the aircraft’s operational issues. The release of this footage has sparked widespread public outrage and raised critical questions about Air India’s maintenance practices. Aviation experts and commentators have expressed concern over the airline’s failure to address recurring technical issues within its fleet. Reports of similar malfunctions, such as cracked windshields, equipment failures, and snags, have been documented in the past, indicating a pattern of neglect in maintaining aircraft standards.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated an investigation into the crash, with assistance from Boeing and international aviation authorities. Preliminary findings suggest that the aircraft struggled to gain altitude after takeoff, possibly due to a loss of engine thrust or aerodynamic stall. The aircraft’s configuration, including partially retracted wing flaps and landing gear remaining down, may have contributed to the incident. This tragic event underscores the critical importance of stringent maintenance protocols and regular inspections to ensure passenger safety. The aviation industry must prioritize transparency and accountability to restore public trust and prevent future disasters. As investigations continue, it is imperative for airlines to address maintenance deficiencies and uphold the highest safety standards to protect passengers and prevent such tragedies from recurring.
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