Air India plane crash
Pilot Error Theory
Several aviation experts—including Captain Steve Chen and consultant Keith Tonkin—have analyzed the video of the crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. They observed the aircraft climbing normally, then abruptly losing altitude. A key point: they believe the flaps were retracted too early, possibly by mistake, while the landing gear remained extended—causing a sharp loss of lift
One analysis noted:
“It looks like the flaps were fully or partially retracted” and the crew “may have accidentally adjusted the flap lever instead of the gear lever”.
📊 Loss of Lift & Stall Risk
Air India plane crash
Without flaps set for takeoff, a 787 would struggle to gain altitude. Investigators highlighted that the aircraft was flying barely above stall speed (~174 knots), and the combination of extended gear and retracted flaps likely precipitated a stall .
🧩 Other Possible Factors
- Engine or thrust failure: Still under examination, but many experts believe this less likely given the normal initial climb and absence of distress indicators
- Maintenance or mechanical issues: The DGCA has ordered inspections across Air India’s fleet, including checks on flap, slat, and gear systems
- Other potential causes: Bird strike or electrical malfunction are also being evaluated
🧭 Investigation Status
- The flight data recorder has been recovered; investigators are analyzing key parameters, including flap and gear positions
- Teams from Boeing, the UK’s AAIB, and the U.S. NTSB are assisting the Indian AAIB
- The DGCA has mandated fleet-wide inspections for Boeing 787s operated by Air India
✅ Summary
- Leading theory: premature flap retraction combined with extended landing gear created insufficient lift and stall.
- Alternate theories (engine, mechanical, or external forces) remain under review.
- A definitive cause will be confirmed after full analysis of the flight data recorder, cockpit voice recorder, and maintenance logs.
As of now, available evidence strongly suggests configuration error—likely the flaps being retracted too soon—as the primary factor. The investigation is ongoing, and preliminary findings may emerge in the coming weeks.
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