The horrific Air India crash in Ahmedabad that killed at least 274 people is being investigated on every front, including possible sabotage, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed on Saturday.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London, crashed just seconds after take-off on June 12, leaving only one survivor among the 242 passengers and crew on board.

Speaking to NDTV, Mohol stated: “The AAIB has begun a full investigation… It is being probed from all angles, including any possible sabotage. The CCTV footage is being reviewed and several agencies are working on it.”

Mohol said the crucial black box — containing the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) — has been successfully recovered and is in the custody of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.

“It will not go anywhere. It is in AAIB’s custody and there is no need to send it outside. We will do the entire investigation,” the minister assured.

Investigators Eye Rare Dual Engine Failure

Investigators are also considering other technical possibilities, including a rare simultaneous failure of both engines or a fuel-supply fault.

“It has never happened that both engines shut down together. The CVR will reveal the cockpit conversation. It’s too early to say anything now, but the full report will be out in three months,” Mohol said, as quoted by NDTV.

The tragedy has sparked public anxiety about the safety of Boeing Dreamliners in India. Responding to these concerns, Mohol noted:

“All 33 Dreamliners have been inspected on DGCA orders and everything was found safe.”

Wider Aviation Concerns Raised

Mohol also highlighted broader issues facing Indian aviation. He acknowledged that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is grappling with 419 technical vacancies, and promised urgent steps to fill those posts.

On the matter of pilot welfare, Mohol asserted that no private airline can make unauthorized pilot appointments and that pilots who feel exploited should approach the ministry directly for help.

Cheaper Airport Food Coming

In a separate note, the minister responded to growing passenger frustration over high food prices at airports. Mohol said the government is expanding low-cost ‘Udaan Yatri Cafes’, which currently operate in four to five airports:

“Water for Rs 10, tea and samosas for Rs 20, these will gradually expand,” he said.