Air India AI-171 Crash Investigation: Black Box Data Under Analysis to Uncover Critical Clues

Black Box Data Emerges as Key to AI-171 Crash Probe

The investigation into the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash has accelerated with the successful recovery and ongoing analysis of crucial black box data. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) confirmed that the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) have both been secured and are now undergoing detailed examination.

This critical development marks a significant step toward unravelling the circumstances that led to one of the most serious aviation incidents in India’s recent history.

A Multinational Effort to Decode the AI-171 Mystery

India’s AAIB swiftly launched the investigation on June 13, 2025—the very day of the accident—reflecting the country’s adherence to international aviation protocols under the ICAO Chicago Convention (1944) and India’s Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017.

Leading the effort is the AAIB’s Director General, overseeing a multidisciplinary team that includes aviation medicine experts, air traffic controllers, and representatives from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The presence of NTSB officials underscores the global cooperation essential for such complex investigations.

Securing the Black Boxes: High-Stakes Logistics

The investigation achieved a major milestone with the recovery of both black boxes from the crash site in Ahmedabad—one retrieved on June 13, and the second on June 16, 2025.

These sensitive devices were handled under stringent Standard Operating Procedures, including 24/7 police protection and continuous CCTV monitoring. On June 24, the recorders were flown from Ahmedabad to Delhi aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft. The front black box arrived at the AAIB laboratory at 2:00 PM, followed by the rear unit at 5:15 PM the same day.

Technical Analysis Commences in Delhi

On the evening of June 24, the AAIB and NTSB technical teams began extracting data from the black boxes. Investigators successfully removed the Crash Protection Module (CPM) from the front unit. By June 25, they had accessed the internal memory module and initiated a download of crucial flight data.

Analysis of the CVR and FDR recordings is now in full swing. This process is expected to provide insights into cockpit conversations, system warnings, and flight parameters leading up to the crash.

Why This Investigation Matters for B2B Travel Professionals

For B2B travel professionals—including airline partners, corporate travel managers, and consolidators—understanding the investigation’s progress is critical. The findings from the black box data will influence:

• Aviation safety protocols

• Potential operational changes for carriers like Air India

• Traveller confidence in certain routes or aircraft types

• Crisis communication strategies for travel brands

Ensuring clients are informed and reassured is a vital part of managing business relationships and traveller expectations in the aftermath of high-profile aviation incidents.

Looking Ahead: Safety and Accountability

As investigators continue piecing together the final moments of AI-171, the aviation industry—and the travelling public—await definitive answers. The analysis of black box data will be pivotal in identifying root causes and recommending safety measures to prevent future tragedies.

The rapid and transparent handling of the investigation reflects India’s commitment to global aviation standards and passenger safety. For travel professionals, staying updated on such developments is essential for providing informed guidance to clients and partners alike.

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