AHMEDABAD: In a significant development in the investigation into the Air India Ahmedabad–London crash, authorities have recovered the black box of the ill-fated Boeing 787, just over 24 hours after the aircraft went down in a densely populated area, killing 241 of the 242 people on board.
The Flight Data Recorder (FDR)—commonly referred to as the black box—was discovered on a rooftop, believed to be that of the BJ Medical College hostel, where the aircraft slammed into the mess hall shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.
Confirming the recovery, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) said in a statement, "The black box was found on the rooftop."
The recovery operation, which involved intensive search efforts across the mangle wreckage site in Meghaninagar, marks a critical milestone in the probe.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu shared the update on X, posting: “The Flight Data Recorder (Black Box) has been recovered within 28 hours from the accident site in Ahmedabad by AAIB. This marks an important step forward in the investigation. This will significantly aid the enquiry into the incident.”
Investigators believe the black box will offer vital data on the final moments of the flight, helping to decode what caused the aircraft to lose control so suddenly. Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, further intensifying national focus on the investigation.
The AAIB has already launched a full-scale probe into the crash, deploying a team of experts to examine the evidence. They are being supported by more than 40 officials from the Gujarat government, working closely with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to speed up the inquiry and provide updates to grieving families.
As forensic teams begin analysing the device, experts say the flight data—if intact—will help recreate the final seconds of what is now considered one of India’s deadliest air disasters.