Investigators analyze black box data from deadly Air India crash

In India, the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner occurred on June 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 241 individuals on board and at least 29 people on the ground. Following the incident near Ahmedabad airport, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) undertook the critical task of recovering and examining data from the aircraft's black boxes. As of June 24, officials confirmed that essential data extraction was underway, vital for understanding the crash's causes. The flight went down shortly after takeoff for London, which marked it as one of the worst aviation disasters in recent history. The analysis of the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) is crucial in shedding light on the events leading up to the accident. The black boxes were sent from Ahmedabad to New Delhi, where a specialized laboratory was established to facilitate the investigation. The AAIB, alongside experts from the U.S. National Transport Safety Board, has engaged in a thorough investigation to ensure that a complete understanding of the crash's circumstances is achieved. Importantly, Indian officials had initially considered sending the data abroad for additional analysis but later confirmed that the examination would be handled domestically. The significance of this investigation extends beyond merely uncovering the causes of the crash; it is vital for improving aviation safety standards within India's rapidly expanding aviation industry. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has raised concerns over recurring aircraft defects and inadequate oversight at major airports in India, which have been highlighted as contributing factors to safety issues. As part of their ongoing efforts to restore public trust following this devastating crash, the DGCA initiated a special audit of Air India's fleet and broader inspections at busy airports like Delhi and Mumbai. As the investigation progresses, Indian authorities are working diligently not only to uncover the factors leading to this tragedy but also to implement changes that would prevent such occurrences in the future. A dedicated high-level committee has been established to examine established protocols, improve emergency response procedures, and evaluate safety measures currently in place across the airline industry. Preliminary findings are expected within the next three months, demonstrating India's commitment to enhancing aviation safety and ensuring accountability in the wake of this unfathomable loss.