Ahmedabad, India — In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI 171 on June 12, 2025, the father of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, the pilot of the ill-fated flight, has publicly disputed the initial findings from investigators, asserting that his son was wrongfully implicated in the disaster.
What Happened
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London, tragically crashed less than a minute after lifting off, killing 229 passengers and 12 crew members, along with 19 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived the incident, which remains the deadliest aviation disaster in India in decades.
In a preliminary report released in July, investigators from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) noted that the fuel switches in the cockpit were moved from the “run” to “cutoff” position almost simultaneously moments after takeoff, a move that likely caused the engines to lose power. However, the report did not definitively conclude whether the switches were intentionally turned off by the pilots or if it was an accident.
Who Was Captain Sumeet Sabharwal
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, 42, was an experienced pilot with a reputation for professionalism. He had been working with Air India for over 15 years and had logged thousands of flight hours. Described by his father as a dedicated aviator, Sumeet’s untimely death has left the family shattered, especially after allegations about his mental health and possible involvement in the crash. His father, Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, a former official with India’s aviation safety regulator, has been outspoken in his defense of his son’s reputation and in questioning the investigation’s findings.
Career, Legacy, and Background
Sumeet’s career in aviation was characterized by a commitment to excellence, and he had been highly regarded within Air India. Tragically, his life was cut short in a catastrophic accident, and his family now finds themselves caught in a web of public speculation about his actions leading to the disaster.
The incident has brought intense scrutiny to the issue of mental health in aviation, with the report implying that personal factors, including a past divorce and the death of his mother, may have influenced Sumeet’s mental state at the time of the crash. Pushkar Raj Sabharwal strongly rejected these assumptions, stating that there was no evidence to suggest that these events affected his son’s performance on the day of the crash.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The reaction to the investigation’s preliminary findings has sparked an outcry from both the Sabharwal family and the broader aviation community. The Federation of Indian Pilots condemned the visit by AAIB officials to Mr. Sabharwal’s home, describing it as inappropriate and undermining the integrity of the investigation. Captain CS Randhawa, the federation’s head, criticized the visit, stating, “In any court of law, the judge or the prosecutor does not go to the house of victims and cross-question individuals,” further emphasizing the need for fairness and transparency in the investigation.
On social media, many have rallied behind the Sabharwal family, calling for a more thorough and unbiased inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash. There is growing public concern over the way the investigation has been handled and the potential damage to Captain Sumeet Sabharwal’s reputation due to what some see as misleading leaks.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
In response to the controversy, Pushkar Raj Sabharwal has urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to reopen the investigation and conduct a more thorough inquiry, expressing concerns over the selective release of information that he believes has painted a misleading picture of his son’s mental health. He has also demanded that the AAIB reconsider its preliminary findings and ensure that the investigation is conducted transparently and fairly.
The Federation of Indian Pilots has voiced their support for Mr. Sabharwal, calling for justice and a fair investigation into the crash. The federation has formally approached the Minister of Civil Aviation to address the issues arising from the visit by AAIB officials.
As the investigation continues, the Sabharwal family is left to grapple with the pain of losing a loved one while also seeking to clear his name and restore his honor. They remain hopeful that the truth will eventually be revealed.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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