Ahmedabad, India – On June 12, 2025, tragedy struck when Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The disaster claimed the lives of 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 people on the ground, leaving only one survivor. It is the deadliest aviation disaster in India in decades.
In the aftermath, investigators pointed to a cockpit fuel switch being moved from “run” to “cutoff” shortly after takeoff, which led to engine failure. The preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) did not clarify whether the action was intentional or accidental.
The pilot at the center of the controversy was Captain Sumate Sabharwal. His father, Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, has publicly challenged the investigation’s findings, insisting his son should not be blamed for the tragedy.
What Happened
The crash occurred less than a minute after takeoff, a sudden tragedy that stunned the nation. The AAIB’s preliminary report identified a cockpit fuel switch being moved to “cutoff,” causing a catastrophic loss of engine power. However, the report did not determine if this action was deliberate.
This ambiguity has led to public debate, particularly as the Sabharwal family insists Captain Sumate was not responsible.
Who Was Captain Sumate Sabharwal
Captain Sumate Sabharwal, aged 42, was a seasoned aviator with over 15 years of service at Air India. Known for his professionalism and dedication, his tragic death has sparked grief and controversy.
His father, Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, a former officer with India’s aviation security regulator, has defended his son’s legacy. He insists there is no evidence that Captain Sumate’s personal life — including a divorce and the recent death of his mother — affected his performance during the flight.
Career, Heritage, and Background
Captain Sabharwal’s aviation career was marked by commitment, skill, and a strong reputation within Air India. His life, however, ended in tragedy, and the ensuing controversy has left his family battling both grief and public scrutiny.
The incident has brought attention to mental health in aviation, but Captain Sabharwal’s father strongly rejects claims that personal difficulties contributed to the crash. He maintains these narratives are speculative and damaging to his son’s honor.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The preliminary findings have sparked outrage, with many defending Captain Sabharwal and demanding transparency in the investigation. The Indian Pilot Federation and aviation professionals criticized visits by AAIB investigators to Captain Sabharwal’s home, calling it inappropriate and harmful to the integrity of the inquiry.
Captain C.S. Randhawa, head of the federation, stated:
“In any legal system, investigators do not cross-question victims’ families at their homes. Fairness and transparency must be upheld.”
On social media, public sentiment has shown support for the Sabarwal family, with calls for a thorough re-investigation and greater transparency.
Official Statement and Next Steps
Pushkar Raj Sabharwal has formally requested the Ministry of Civil Aviation to reopen the investigation, citing concerns about selective release of information and questioning the conclusions regarding his son’s mental state. He demands a more comprehensive, transparent inquiry.
The Indian Pilot Federation has also supported these demands and formally approached the Civil Aviation Minister to address perceived shortcomings in the AAIB investigation.
As the investigation continues, the Sabarwal family continues to grieve while seeking justice and the truth behind the tragedy.
Conclusion
The Air India Flight AI 171 crash remains one of the most tragic aviation disasters in India’s history. The dispute over Captain Sumate Sabharwal’s role has intensified public discussion about aviation safety, mental health, and fairness in investigation processes. Whether the final inquiry will clear his name remains uncertain, but the calls for justice and transparency continue to grow.