Air India’s AI-171 crash on June 12 sent shockwaves around the world, leaving many to wonder about the cause of this tragic event. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been working tirelessly to unravel the mystery, and in this article, we’ll delve into the latest updates on the investigation and the role of AI in aviation safety.
The Search for Answers
The AAIB has made significant progress in its investigation, with the discovery of the Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR), also known as the black box, on June 13. However, the device suffered extensive thermal damage, making it challenging to retrieve the data. The forward black box, discovered on June 16, yielded more success, providing valuable flight data covering 49 hours across six flights, including AI-171, and included a two-hour cockpit audio recording.
The Role of AI in Aviation Safety
The crash has raised concerns about the use of AI in aviation. AI-powered systems are increasingly being used in aircraft, from navigation to predictive maintenance. While AI has the potential to improve safety, it also introduces new risks. The UK government’s AI governance consultation outcome, released in February 2024, recommends five cross-sectoral principles for AI development, including safety, security, and robustness; transparency and explainability; fairness; accountability; and governance, contemptibility, and redress.
Recent Developments
The AAIB’s investigation is ongoing, with investigators now focusing on the wreckage of the aircraft’s tail section. The Paris AI Action Summit (PAIAS) held in early 2025 emphasized the need for international collaboration to ensure the safe development and deployment of AI in aviation. In November 2023, the UK hosted the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit, which highlighted the importance of AI governance in ensuring the safety of AI systems.
Reporting Errors in AI Outputs
The Indian government has also issued guidelines for reporting errors or issues noticed in outputs of approved AI tools. According to the guidelines, such errors must be reported immediately to the Principle District Court and forwarded to the IT department of the High Court promptly.
Conclusion
The AAIB’s investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash is ongoing, and while the cause of the tragedy remains unknown, it has highlighted the importance of AI governance in aviation safety. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in aircraft systems, it’s crucial that regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders work together to ensure the safe development and deployment of AI-powered systems.
Originally published on https://www.businesstoday.in/bt-tv/video/what-is-aaib-and-when-will-its-final-report-on-ai-171-crash-be-released-485334-2025-07-19
