Boeing responds to deadly Air India flight 171 crash

Dubai: Following the devastating crash of Air India Flight 171, Boeing has released a statement expressing its awareness of the incident and its readiness to offer support to Air India.

The crash, involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, occurred shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, with 242 people on board.

In a preliminary statement issued Thursday soon after the crash, Boeing confirmed it was "aware of initial reports" regarding the crash and is working to gather more information on the tragic incident.

"We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them," Boeing said in a later statement. "Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders, and all affected by this tragic event."

Boeing’s statement comes as aviation authorities, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Although the specifics remain unclear, sources suggest that mechanical malfunction, bird strikes, or human error may have contributed to the disaster.

"There is no confirmed cause of the crash at this stage. A detailed inquiry has been initiated," said a DGCA spokesperson, adding that all relevant agencies are being involved in the probe.

Boeing has emphasized its commitment to assisting Air India throughout the investigation process. The plane manufacturer, which has faced significant scrutiny in the past for issues involving its Dreamliner fleet, is expected to cooperate fully with the Indian authorities.

Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was scheduled to fly from Ahmedabad to London when it tragically crashed shortly after takeoff, leading to significant loss of life. This crash marks a grim chapter in Boeing’s history, especially after the company’s previous challenges with safety and quality control over the years.

The crash of Flight 171 has raised questions about the safety of the Boeing 787-8, which has faced a history of manufacturing flaws and issues, including battery fires in earlier models. Boeing, however, has consistently worked to resolve these issues and improve the safety of its aircraft.

The company is likely to face intense scrutiny once again, as the aviation world waits for further details on the crash. As the investigation progresses, Boeing’s response and cooperation will be critical in understanding the cause of the accident and preventing similar incidents in the future.