Air India Flight 171 Probe: Progress Made, Conclusions Still Pending

Indian investigators have reported that "significant progress has been made" in the ongoing probe into Air India Flight 171. According to a progress note highlighted on Flightradar24's AvTalk podcast (Episode 375), officials have completed extensive examinations of aircraft systems, flight-recorder data, engine-related components, and maintenance and operational records.

Despite the volume of evidence gathered, investigators stressed the probe is not yet complete. Findings are being analyzed in a "comprehensive and integrated manner," with additional technical and specialist examinations continuing as needed. The absence of a definitive cause in the latest update has prompted industry analysts to question the ultimate purpose of interim progress reports.

Elsewhere in aviation, the European Parliament has voted to keep airline passenger compensation legislation largely unchanged. Qantas is preparing to launch its first Project Sunrise route using the Airbus A350-1000ULR, marking a milestone in ultra-long-haul commercial flying. And Spirit Airlines has received court approval to auction assets — including coveted slots at New York's LaGuardia Airport — as the carrier continues restructuring.