Indian investigators continue to analyze evidence from last year’s Air India Boeing 787 crash that claimed 260 lives, as families of the victims mark the disaster’s first anniversary seeking answers. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) reported making “significant progress” in examining aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine components, and maintenance and operational records but did not provide a timeline for the release of its final report.

The crash occurred on June 12, 2025, shortly after the Air India Dreamliner took off from Ahmedabad en route to London, resulting in the deadliest aviation disaster worldwide in a decade. Investigators have conducted “an extensive and rigorous examination” over the past year, focusing on technical, operational, organizational, and human factors involved in the incident. However, they have yet to determine the exact cause.

Relatives of the victims gathered in Ahmedabad to commemorate the anniversary, expressing frustration at the delay in official findings. Tanay Gajjar, who lost his mother in the crash, urged authorities to disclose the root cause of the accident after 365 days. More than 250 family members, representing over 100 victims, participated in a candlelight vigil and shared memories at a local hotel.

A preliminary report released shortly after the incident revealed that the Boeing 787’s engine fuel control switches shifted nearly simultaneously from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF,’ cutting fuel supply to both engines soon after takeoff. Early assessments by U.S. officials indicated that the captain might have deliberately cut fuel flow, based on cockpit voice recordings. However, the AAIB and other agencies continue to investigate this aspect thoroughly.

The complexity of the probe has led to delays in issuing a final report. International aviation protocols recommend releasing a final investigation report within one year if possible, but when this deadline is missed, authorities are expected to issue an interim update on each anniversary. Reuters reported last month that investigators are likely to postpone the final report until further analysis, particularly concerning the aircraft’s engines, is complete.

Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, father of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal—the pilot flying Flight AI171 at the time of the crash—defended his son against allegations of responsibility. In a recent statement broadcast by the BBC, he emphasized his son’s years of safe flying and questioned how he could be held accountable for the tragedy.

Meanwhile, families of victims continue to endure the emotional toll, with some still awaiting the return of personal belongings. Vihar Parikh, whose grandfather Chaitanya Parikh died in the crash, noted that investigators have not yet returned his grandfather’s phone and other possessions.

As the investigation remains ongoing, the AAIB has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the investigation “after all required international reviews” are conducted, stressing that accuracy and thoroughness are paramount before any final conclusions are made public.