What Went Wrong? The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner’s Troubling History Amid Ahmedabad Crash

Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner: A History of Concerns

New Delhi: The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, celebrated for its cutting-edge technology and fuel efficiency, has encountered numerous technical and safety challenges globally throughout its service history.

On Thursday, one such aircraft, operating as Air India flight AI 171, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff. The flight was en route to London’s Gatwick Airport and had 242 individuals on board, including 10 crew members.

Although the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a popular choice for long-haul international travel and is regarded as a modern aircraft, it has been associated with various safety issues.

In 2013, the entire fleet of Dreamliners was grounded due to incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires, including one on a parked Japan Airlines plane in Boston and another emergency mid-flight in Japan.

These events prompted the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to halt Dreamliner operations until Boeing could redesign the battery system.

In 2024, Boeing faced renewed scrutiny when whistleblower Sam Salehpour, an engineer at the company, informed the US Senate about potential structural issues within the Dreamliner’s fuselage.

He alleged that small gaps and improper assembly could lead to premature wear and possible structural failures. The FAA has since initiated an investigation that remains active.

Despite its marketing as one of the safest and most advanced aircraft available, the Dreamliner has been linked to multiple technical faults.

Earlier this year, a Boeing 787-9 operated by LATAM Airlines experienced a sudden altitude drop during flight, resulting in injuries to 50 passengers. The incident was traced back to a malfunction in the cockpit seat.

Over the years, pilots have reported various issues, including engine icing, fuel leaks, generator malfunctions, and electrical system failures.

Data from Flightradar24 indicates that the aircraft involved in Thursday's crash first took to the skies in 2013 and was delivered to Air India in January 2014.

The investigation into the cause of the crash in Ahmedabad is currently being conducted by Air India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The Central government has pledged full support for rescue and relief operations, with casualty figures yet to be confirmed.