The tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, has sparked intense debate and speculation in aviation circles and the media. While initial reports and many pilots worldwide have pointed to pilot error as the primary cause, some experts and former pilots are raising serious questions about this narrative, suggesting that there may be more to the story.

Insurance Policy Raised Just Before Crash

One of the most striking details fueling conspiracy theories is that Air India increased the insurance coverage for the AI 171 aircraft from ₹750 crore to ₹850 crore just one month before the accident, following a major engine replacement. This has led to questions about whether the timing was coincidental or indicative of foreknowledge of potential issues.

The Crash and Immediate Reactions

The crash resulted in the deaths of both pilots, Sumit Sabharwal and Clive Kundev, as well as 270 passengers and crew. Since both pilots perished, they are unable to defend themselves, making them easy targets for blame. The global pilot community and media reports have largely attributed the crash to pilot error, alleging that the pilots failed to retract the landing gear and did not properly configure the flaps during takeoff, which allegedly led to insufficient lift and the subsequent crash.

Technical Analysis and Counterarguments

However, prominent Indian aviation YouTuber and former pilot Gaurav Taneja (Flying Beast) has publicly challenged these claims. Taneja points out several technical flaws in the theory:

– Landing Gear and Flap Controls: The controls for landing gear and flaps are located in different positions in the cockpit, making it highly unlikely that a pilot would confuse the two, especially given their extensive experience.
– System Alerts: Modern aircraft like the Boeing Dreamliner are equipped with advanced warning systems. If the flaps or landing gear were not set correctly, multiple alarms would alert the pilots, providing ample time (up to 18 seconds, according to Taneja’s demonstration) to correct any mistake.
– Aircraft Design: The Boeing 787 is designed to be able to take off and land safely even if one engine fails. The recently replaced engine was new, making a sudden failure improbable.
– Previous Complaints: Passengers had previously complained about technical issues on the same aircraft, including power outages and water leaks, raising concerns about maintenance standards.

Insurance and Financial Stakes

If the crash is attributed to pilot error, Air India and Boeing may more easily claim insurance payouts. The total expected insurance claim for Air India is estimated at ₹1,500 crore, covering the loss of the aircraft, compensation to victims’ families under the Montreal Convention, and third-party damages (such as the destruction of a nearby medical college building).

Boeing, as the manufacturer, could also claim product liability insurance if a mechanical fault is found, although this would be more difficult if pilot error is established as the official cause.

Boeing’s Controversial Track Record

Boeing has faced repeated criticism over manufacturing practices and safety standards, with several whistleblowers alleging that corners were cut during the production of its aircraft, including the Dreamliner. Some former employees who raised concerns reportedly died under suspicious circumstances, adding to the controversy.

Media Narratives and the Search for Accountability

Critics argue that blaming the deceased pilots is the simplest way to close the case and secure insurance payouts, but it may not reflect the true cause of the crash. With the black box recovered and investigations ongoing, many are calling for a thorough and unbiased probe, rather than a rush to judgment influenced by financial or reputational interests.

As investigations continue, the families of the victims and the broader aviation community await clear answers. The case raises important questions about transparency, maintenance practices, and corporate accountability in the aviation industry. For now, the debate continues: was this a tragic accident, a result of human error, or is there a deeper story yet to emerge?