On June 12, Air India Flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, killing 260 people. Investigators believe the crash was caused by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and his co-pilot accidentally or deliberately switching off two fuel levers, cutting engine power. “Why did he cut off?” one pilot asked in the cockpit recording. The other replied, “I did not do so.”

Although the switches were later turned back on, it was too late. Experts call it “absolutely bizarre,” noting the levers require manual effort and can’t be flipped by accident. U.S. pilots familiar with the case suspect “pilot-induced crash.”

Sabharwal, 56, had over 8,200 flight hours and was considered a “gentle soul” and “hero” by friends. He had been grieving his mother’s death and caring for his elderly father. Some believe mental health may have played a role.

Families of the victims reject this theory. “It’s a cover-up to protect Air India,” said Ameen Siddiqui, who lost relatives. “They want to blame dead pilots who can’t defend themselves.”

The FAA had previously warned airlines about faulty fuel switch locks, but Air India did not inspect the switches, saying the advisory was not mandatory. Investigations are ongoing.

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