Gujarat ATS Recovers Crucial DVR Evidence in Air India AI171 Crash Probe
Ahmedabad, June 13, 2025 – In a major development in the investigation of the Air India Flight AI171 tragedy, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has recovered a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) from the wreckage of the ill-fated aircraft. Officials believe the device could hold critical CCTV footage that may offer vital insights into the moments leading up to the crash—or the impact itself.
The DVR has been sent to a specialized cyber forensics laboratory for data extraction. Experts hope the recovered footage could help determine whether the crash was caused by sabotage, mechanical failure, or procedural error.
Flight AI171, one of 16 Air India flights rerouted due to escalating tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s Operation Rising Lion airstrikes on Iran, crashed while attempting an emergency landing at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. All 189 passengers and crew onboard perished in the disaster.
The recovery of the DVR marks a significant turning point in the probe, which had so far relied heavily on damaged black box components—specifically, the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR). The Gujarat ATS, leading a parallel investigation into possible foul play, believes the DVR could provide definitive visual evidence of what transpired inside the aircraft moments before the crash.
Speaking to reporters, Gujarat ATS Chief DIG Rajesh Patel said, “This DVR could prove to be a game-changer. Our forensic teams are working around the clock to recover and analyze the footage. If intact, it may capture key cockpit interactions, passenger activity, or even external visuals if outward-facing cameras were active.”
Authorities are not ruling out sabotage, particularly given the crash’s timing during heightened regional tensions. Investigators are also examining potential cyber threats or interference with air traffic control systems, in light of Iran’s warnings of retaliation and ongoing military activity in the region.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the nation, triggering public outpourings of grief and renewed concern over aviation safety amid global conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences and assured full support for the ongoing investigation and for the families of the victims.
In response, the Civil Aviation Ministry has temporarily grounded all Air India flights operating to and from the Middle East pending a comprehensive safety review. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is coordinating closely with international partners, including the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority, to ensure a transparent and thorough investigation.
Aviation analysts say the DVR footage could provide vital information about potential external factors such as missile debris, electronic jamming, or onboard anomalies. Retired Air India pilot Captain Anil Sharma noted, “If the DVR footage is intact, it might answer key questions that the damaged black box data could not. It could either confirm or rule out foul play.”
The incident has also reignited debate about India’s delicate diplomatic balancing act between Israel and Iran, with the Ministry of External Affairs urging all parties in the region to exercise restraint and prioritize civilian safety.
Meanwhile, the economic impact continues to unfold. Brent crude oil prices have risen by over 12%, with further disruptions feared due to affected air corridors and global supply chains.
As the forensic analysis of the DVR begins, the investigation takes a critical leap forward. The hope now rests on recovering usable data that could finally offer clarity and closure in what is shaping up to be one of India’s worst aviation disasters in recent memory.
