Air India Crash: Bird Hit Likely Caused Engine Failure, Say Experts

Flight AI171 may have lost engine power due to multiple bird hits moments after takeoff; 242 onboard, Mayday call confirmed.

New Delhi | June 12, 2025 — Aviation experts have suggested that a bird hit may have led to engine failure on Air India Flight AI171, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London’s Gatwick Airport. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner had 242 people on board, including 230 passengers, 10 crew members, and 2 pilots.

Also Read: Air India Flight Crash Sends Shockwaves Across Nation: What We Know So Far!

According to Captain Saurabh Bhatnagar, a former senior pilot, the early assessment points toward a “case of multiple bird hits” which could have caused both engines to lose power just as the aircraft was lifting off.

“The takeoff appeared smooth, but shortly before the gear was retracted, the aircraft began descending — which strongly indicates engine power loss or a failure to generate lift,” he explained.
“The pilot had already issued a Mayday call, confirming it was an emergency situation.”

Crash Timeline So Far:

Flight AI171 departed from Runway 23 of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM.
The aircraft reached an altitude of only 825 feet before suddenly descending.
A controlled but catastrophic descent led to the crash into a residential area, with heavy smoke and fire reported.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the ATC received the Mayday call but failed to respond in time.

Also Read: Air India Ahmedabad-London Flight Latest Update: Plane Crashed Soon After Take-Off, 242 Onboard Including 53 British Nationals

Bird Strike Risk Still a Concern

Bird strikes, particularly during takeoff and landing phases, pose a serious hazard to aviation. If confirmed, this incident would highlight the urgent need for enhanced wildlife hazard management near key Indian airports.

Air India and the DGCA have launched a full investigation, and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has confirmed that all emergency services remain on high alert. Meanwhile, injured passengers have been moved to nearby hospitals, and an emergency hotline (1800 5691 444) has been activated for families.