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- By Shivangi Sharma
- Thu, 12 Jun 2025 06:12 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, hailed as one of the most advanced commercial aircraft in aviation history, is now under intense scrutiny after its involvement in a tragic plane crash near Ahmedabad, India. This incident, which claimed the lives of hundreds, marks the first fatal crash involving the 787-8 since its introduction in 2011.
Until the June 11, 2025, crash of Air India Flight AI-171, the Boeing 787-8 had maintained a nearly spotless safety record. Over 1,000 Dreamliners have been delivered worldwide, carrying more than one billion passengers. Despite facing several operational issues over the years, none had previously resulted in a fatality.
According to the Aviation Safety Network database, the 787 Dreamliner had recorded incidents of technical malfunctions, including in-flight injuries, emergency landings, and mechanical warnings, but no loss of life. This pristine track record now faces a significant blemish, as investigators dig deeper into what caused the aircraft to crash moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport.
Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Flight AI-171, a London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 passengers and crew, took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 pm on June 11. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft issued a 'MAYDAY' call but went silent soon after. It crashed into a residential area near the airport, triggering a fire and massive rescue efforts. Eyewitnesses reported black smoke billowing from the crash site.
The tragedy is currently under investigation, and while mechanical failure has not been officially confirmed, it has renewed concerns over the Dreamliner’s safety and Boeing’s manufacturing practices.
Prior Incidents And Ongoing Concerns
In September 2024, another Air India 787-8 made an emergency landing in Moscow en route to Birmingham due to technical issues. Though no injuries were reported, the incident was a warning sign. In fact, the Ahmedabad crash is the sixth reported incident involving the 787-8 Dreamliner in 2025 alone.
Boeing is still grappling with the fallout from its 737 Max crisis, which resulted in two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. Although the company reached a deal with the US Justice Department to avoid criminal liability, its reputation continues to be challenged by whistleblowers and safety watchdogs.
Sam Salehpour Raised Concerns
In early 2024, Boeing engineer and whistleblower Sam Salehpour raised serious concerns about safety issues in the manufacturing of Boeing’s 777 and 787 Dreamliner jets. Testifying before a congressional hearing, Salehpour alleged that shortcuts taken during production could pose catastrophic risks as the planes age. He claimed retaliation from his employer after filing a formal complaint with the FAA in January. While Boeing denied the claims, the FAA confirmed it is investigating the allegations. Salehpour stressed his motive was to ensure Boeing’s success through accountability and safety reforms.
Whistleblower John Barnett, a former Boeing quality control engineer, also previously raised concerns about manufacturing issues on the 787 production line. He alleged that under immense production pressure, some employees were installing defective parts and skipping essential quality checks. His claims included faulty oxygen systems, which he said could leave one in four masks non-functional in emergencies.
Barnett’s family has since filed a lawsuit against Boeing, citing his PTSD and mental distress as a result of being ignored by the company. His death, ruled a suicide, continues to cast a long shadow over Boeing’s internal practices.
Technological Marvel With Flaws?
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was a revolutionary aircraft when introduced. With a range of over 13,500 km and fuel consumption up to 25 per cent lower than older jets, the 787 is popular among airlines for long-haul flights. It typically seats 248 passengers and boasts state-of-the-art safety features, including advanced fly-by-wire systems, improved cabin pressurisation, and a lightweight composite airframe.
Is Synthetic Vision System (SVS) offers pilots 3D terrain awareness, while enhanced avionics improve both safety and fuel efficiency. Despite these technological advancements, recent events have put a spotlight on production oversight, particularly at Boeing’s South Carolina plant, which has faced several internal audits and external investigations.
Following the Ahmedabad crash, Boeing’s stock tumbled nearly 8 per cent in premarket trading. The company issued a brief statement: “We are aware of initial reports and are working to gather more information.” Industry experts predict increased regulatory scrutiny and potential delays in future Dreamliner deliveries.