A preliminary report reveals that a malfunctioning locking mechanism in the captain’s seat caused the fatal Air India Boeing 787 crash that claimed 270 lives.
Investigators found that the pilot’s seat unexpectedly slid backward during takeoff, causing the captain’s hands to unintentionally pull the throttle levers to idle.
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This sudden loss of engine power shortly after liftoff led to the aircraft stalling and crashing into a nearby building housing medical personnel.
The report also notes that the co-pilot’s efforts to regain control were hindered by the captain’s reclined seat position.
Key cockpit data indicated:
- +12 seconds: Seat slides backward
- +15 seconds: Co-pilot shouts, “We’re losing thrust!”
- +26 seconds: Aircraft stalls at 214 feet
Investigators highlighted missing safety features in the 787 throttle system, including reverse-motion protection and weight-based lockouts.
In response, the FAA and EASA have ordered immediate inspections of all Boeing 787 pilot seats.
Air India has grounded 12 aircraft with similar maintenance issues, while Boeing has committed to redesigning the pilot seat by 2026.
The crash resulted in fatalities among passengers, crew, and people in the impacted building, with only one British national surviving.
The final investigation report is expected in July, alongside promises for stricter inspections and global aviation safety reforms.
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