Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 — Tragedy struck on Thursday afternoon as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing a large number of passengers and crew.
Catastrophic Crash Moments After Takeoff
The aircraft took off at approximately 1:38 PM IST with 242 people on board—230 passengers and 12 crew members. Within minutes, it issued a MAYDAY call and crashed into the Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad. Eyewitnesses reported a fireball engulfing the sky as the jet, still laden with fuel, exploded on impact.
High Casualties, Ground Impact
Officials have confirmed that over 100 bodies have been recovered so far, with more feared dead. The aircraft is believed to have struck a doctors’ hostel near BJ Medical College, causing further ground-level casualties. One survivor, reportedly seated in 11A, has been found and is receiving critical care.
Emergency response was swift, with six NDRF teams, dozens of fire engines, and ambulances deployed to manage the blaze and recover victims. The intensity of the fire has hindered rescue efforts.
Crew and Notable Passengers
The flight was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a veteran with over 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours of experience. Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani; his status remains unconfirmed at this time.
National and International Reaction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), saying:
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words… my thoughts are with everyone affected.”
World leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President Vladimir Putin, and King Charles III, have sent their condolences. The UK confirmed that British nationals were aboard the ill-fated flight.
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a joint probe. Boeing has confirmed it will cooperate fully.
The focus of the investigation includes analysis of flight data and cockpit voice recorders, possible mechanical issues, and air traffic control logs.
