Why the RAT Changes Everything – Air India 171 Update

In this update to our original video on Air India Flight 171, Captain Steeeve revisits his initial theory—and sets the record straight.

Previously, Steeeve leaned heavily into the possibility that the pilot may have accidentally retracted the flaps instead of the landing gear during the takeoff roll, resulting in a critical loss of lift. But new, higher-quality footage tells a different story.

In this video, we clearly see the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed—something that only happens in the event of significant power loss. This changes everything. Steeeve breaks down what the RAT deployment means, walks through the new evidence frame by frame, and explores the very real possibility that this was a dual engine failure scenario.

It’s important to get these stories right. Aviation is a world of learning—and when new information comes to light, good pilots update their understanding.

If you watched the original video, don’t miss this one.