Following publication on 11 July 2025 of the preliminary report into the Air India flight 171 crash, BALPA is cautioning against hasty conclusions and unhelpful speculation as to the causes of the accident to prevent the spread of misinformation and undermining the ongoing investigation. 

The purpose of the preliminary report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau of India (AAIBI) is to promptly disseminate data obtained during the early stages of the investigation. It only contains factual information and an indication of the progress of the investigation. In accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 13 provisions, such reports are published within thirty days of an accident. The report clearly states that no safety recommendations are being provided at this stage. 

Joji Waites, BALPA Director of Flight Safety, said: 

“We understand that people want to know what caused this terrible accident. However, while the investigation is ongoing, it’s important to remember that speculating beyond the facts presented in the report risks spreading misinformation, causing confusion, and undermining the integrity of the investigative process. It can cause additional distress for those directly affected, including the families of the victims.

“The investigation is ongoing and further information from the flight data recorder, cockpit voice recorder, and other evidence still needs to be analysed. The investigation team must be allowed to continue its work thoroughly and without interference, so that all contributing factors are properly identified and the necessary lessons can be learned to enhance flight safety for the future.”