Black Boxes Successfully Downloaded
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), with technical support from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has successfully retrieved and downloaded data from the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner that crashed on June 12, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The devices were recovered on June 13 and June 16, and transported to the AAIB’s new lab in Delhi—where data extraction began on June 25.
What the Recorders Reveal
These recorders contain vital information such as cockpit audio, engine performance, airspeed, altitude, control surface positions, and system alerts. Investigators are particularly focused on assessing engine thrust, flap settings, landing gear status, and whether the emergency Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed during the crash sequence.
Transparent Yet Cautious Process
India has emphasized compliance with international aviation protocols, with authorities maintaining secure storage and transportation of the recorders since recovery . While some experts criticize the delay in beginning data extraction—approximately two weeks after the accident—the government says it aligns with domestic and global regulations.
Domestic Analysis for the First Time
This marks the first accident where India has conducted black box analysis entirely in-country. The NTSB and AAIB are collaborating in the Delhi lab, starting with the front recorder; the rear device follows.
What to Expect Next
- Preliminary findings are expected within 7–10 days, with a detailed interim report due within 30 days of the crash.
- The investigation team includes experts from the AAIB, NTSB, and engine/component manufacturers Boeing and GE.
- Analysis will aim to pinpoint causes, potentially shaping updated safety directives for Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet and broader aviation oversight.
The retrieval and analysis of flight recorder data represent pivotal steps in understanding the sequence of events that led to the tragic crash—India’s deadliest aviation disaster in over a decade. The information may reveal critical insights into system performance, pilot actions, and possible structural or mechanical failures, paving the way for improvements to prevent such tragedies in the future.
