London law firm gears up for legal battle over AI171 crash as families seek justice

The legal routes being considered include the High Court in London and the US federal court system, a path that could result in compensation as high as $8–10 million per victim, far above UK or Indian norms.

Three weeks after Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 242 people on board and 19 on the ground, a major legal push is gaining ground in the UK. Keystone Law, a London-based firm, has been officially retained by several bereaved British families to prepare for legal proceedings once the preliminary investigation report is out, expected within 10 days.

The firm’s aviation specialists, supported by international experts, are zeroing in on two alarming technical failures: why the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed mid-air, and what caused the loss of thrust in both engines. The RAT, which is a backup power system, typically activates only during severe emergencies, raising fears of a deeper systems malfunction right after take-off.

James Healy-Pratt, one of the firm’s aviation partners, told PTI that their focus is clear: “The families of AI171 want truth and justice. We believe serious questions will need to be asked of both Air India and Boeing once the report is out.”

Among the team leading the investigation is a high-profile cast: a former US Navy aviator and attorney based in Virginia (where Boeing is headquartered), a former Royal Air Force pilot, and a renowned UK barrister. The legal routes being considered include the High Court in London and the US federal court system, a path that could result in compensation as high as $8–10 million per victim, far above UK or Indian norms.

While the Indian authorities continue to lead the probe, the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch and disaster victim specialists have been assisting, especially since 52 British nationals were among the deceased. Meanwhile, families are also grappling with painful issues related to identification and repatriation of bodies.

“There’s a lot of grief and growing anger,” said Healy-Pratt. “Many families feel left in the dark. They want to know why their loved ones lost their lives, and they deserve answers.”