18 Jun 2025
It triggers the question of whether the plane’s engines were properly functioning during takeoff.
The Ram Air Turbine (RAT) propeller deploys automatically from the 787 Dreamliner fuselage and functions as a backup generator in case both engines fail, hydraulic system pressures are low, the aircraft’s electric motor pumps stop working, or if cockpit instruments lose power.
RAT can generate enough power to enable critical aircraft components to work properly.
Investigators believe the RAT was working for AI 171 before it crashed, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. Lone survivor, Vishwas Kumar Ramesh’s testimony about hearing a loud bang followed by the flickering of cabin lights conforms with RAT deployment, as per aviation experts.
Meanwhile, DGCA’s investigation revealed no safety concerns in Air India’s 787 fleet. AI 171 had its right engine replaced in March 2025.
Singapore Airlines’ SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) is under scrutiny for being involved in Air India’s aircraft maintenance. It is also developing AI’s maintenance facilities in Bengaluru.
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