The investigation into the devastating Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad is gaining pace. Out of 270 bodies recovered, 87 have now been identified through DNA testing, and 42 have been handed over to families. In a key breakthrough, officials have also recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) — a critical component that could unravel the mystery behind the crash.

What Investigators Have Found

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) confirmed the recovery of both the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder from the wreckage. These “black boxes” are considered essential in understanding the aircraft’s performance and the pilot’s final conversations before the crash.

The plane — a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner — was en route to London when it crashed minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, slamming into the BJ Medical College campus in Meghaninagar, killing 241 people on board and 29 on the ground, including five medical students.

High-Level Review by PM's Principal Secretary

PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM Narendra Modi, visited the crash site and the Civil Hospital treating the injured. During a high-level meeting held at the Circuit House, he reviewed the relief and investigative measures alongside senior officials from the AAIB, Airports Authority of India, and the state and central governments.

The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also conducting a parallel investigation, as the aircraft was manufactured in the United States.

Ongoing Identification of Bodies

Officials at BJ Medical College reported that DNA tests are the primary method for identification, given the severe burns and mutilation of most victims. Among the 87 identified so far is former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, whose state funeral will be held in Rajkot, attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

One foreign national is also among the identified. The 42 victims whose bodies have been handed over were residents of various districts, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Botad, and Kheda.

Medical Update

Out of 51 people injured in the accident, 38 have been discharged. 13 others remain hospitalized, according to Dr. Rajneesh Patel, Additional Civil Superintendent and Professor of Surgery at BJ Medical College.

Significance of the Black Box Recovery

With both the FDR and CVR secured, investigators are now better equipped to:

• Analyze flight parameters like altitude, speed, and engine performance.

• Review cockpit audio to understand pilot decisions and communication with ATC.

• Detect signs of mechanical failure, human error, or external interference.

The recovery of the CVR is seen as a crucial milestone in piecing together the final moments of AI-171’s doomed flight.