In a heart-wrenching incident that has shocked the nation, Air India flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed just minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The aircraft was en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, carrying 242 individuals on board—230 passengers and 12 crew members, including two pilots.
The Crash: What Happened?
According to aviation authorities, the aircraft took off at 1:38 PM IST. Tragically, just two minutes later, at 1:40 PM, the flight crashed near Meghaninagar, a densely populated area close to the airport. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by thick black smoke rising into the sky. The crash occurred within the airport’s perimeter, near Runway 23, but in close proximity to residential zones.
Immediate Emergency Response
Upon receiving the distress signal and reports of the explosion, seven fire brigade vehicles rushed to the crash site. Emergency rescue teams, including airport authorities, local police, CISF, and first responders, arrived swiftly to contain the fire and rescue survivors, if any.
Social media was quickly flooded with horrifying videos and images showing flames and smoke rising from the site. The visuals were heart-wrenching, showing the wreckage of what was once a modern international aircraft.
Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Among Passengers
Unconfirmed reports and sources revealed that Vijay Rupani, former Chief Minister of Gujarat and senior BJP leader, was on board the ill-fated flight. His status remains unknown as of the latest updates, and authorities have not confirmed the condition of individual passengers.
Flight History and Route
Flight AI-171 had originally departed from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and landed in Ahmedabad for a short layover. At 1:38 PM, it resumed its journey toward London Gatwick. The crash occurred barely two minutes after this final takeoff.
Ministers Respond: Emergency Measures Initiated
Upon news of the crash, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah immediately departed for Ahmedabad. The Ministry of Civil Aviation called for an emergency meeting and initiated a full-scale response.
The Director General of the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and a specialized team of investigators also left for Ahmedabad to begin probing the cause of the crash. They are being supported by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Official Statements and Investigation
DGCA Statement: According to the DGCA, the aircraft, a B787 Dreamliner, crashed in a residential area of Meghaninagar. A statement noted the presence of officials from the Directorate of Airworthiness, Flight Operations Inspectors, and Assistant Directors, all of whom are on the ground conducting a thorough assessment.
Air India confirmed the crash via their official X (formerly Twitter) account:
Air India Official Post:
“Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick Airport crashed today, June 12, 2025. We are currently assessing the damage. Further updates will be shared via http://airindia.com and our X handle https://x.com/airindia.”
NDRF and BSF Mobilization: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed the deployment of three teams with 90 personnel from Gandhinagar. An additional three teams were dispatched from Vadodara. The BSF has also been mobilized to secure the crash site and assist in search and recovery operations.
Air India Chairman Expresses Deep Grief
In a public statement, Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran expressed his deep sorrow:
“I am extremely saddened to confirm the crash of Air India flight AI-171 operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected by this terrible tragedy. Our primary focus is to provide every form of support and care to those impacted.”
Air India also confirmed the activation of an Emergency Response Center and the deployment of support teams for families seeking information about their loved ones.
Eyewitness Accounts from Meghaninagar
Local residents in Meghaninagar and Dharpur described the incident as a scene from a nightmare. Many said the plane flew unusually low before it nose-dived into an open plot near residential houses. Several windows shattered in nearby buildings due to the shockwave of the blast.
Eyewitnesses reported:
“We saw the plane going down and then heard a massive explosion. Within seconds, there was fire and smoke. People started running, shouting for help.”
Condition of Survivors and Casualties
As of now, no official count of survivors or casualties has been confirmed. Rescue operations are ongoing. Emergency teams are using thermal sensors and heavy-duty cutters to search for any trapped individuals inside the wreckage.
Hospitals in Ahmedabad, including Civil Hospital and Sterling Hospital, have been put on high alert to receive casualties.
Crash Aircraft Details: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, 11 years old, widely considered a modern and fuel-efficient aircraft. Experts say it had no reported technical issues before takeoff. However, the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, and investigators are focusing on various possibilities including technical failure, bird strike, or pilot error.
Global and National Reactions
Messages of condolences poured in from political leaders, aviation professionals, and the general public. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted:
“Deeply pained by the tragic loss of Air India flight AI-171. My thoughts are with the families of those affected. Prayers for strength and recovery.”
International aviation bodies, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), have expressed solidarity and have offered support in the investigation.
In Summary
The Air India AI-171 crash is one of the most devastating aviation incidents in recent Indian history. With national leaders rushing to the scene, emergency teams working relentlessly, and investigations underway, the country watches with bated breath for updates on survivors, causes, and accountability.
Conclusion
The Air India AI-171 crash is more than just an aviation disaster—it’s a national tragedy. With 242 souls onboard, this heartbreaking event serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of aviation safety.
FAQs
Q1: What caused the Air India AI-171 crash?
Ans: The exact cause is under investigation. Experts suspect engine failure, bird strike, or technical malfunction. The black box will provide clarity.
Q2: Were there any survivors?
Ans: As of now, no official confirmation has been made regarding survivors. Rescue operations are still ongoing.
Q3: Was there any technical issue reported before takeoff?
Ans: No issues were reported. The Boeing 787-8 had a clean flight record and was 11 years old.
Q4: Was the flight on time and cleared by ATC?
Ans: Yes, it departed on time at 1:38 PM and had full ATC clearance.
Q5: What support is available for families of passengers?
Ans: Air India has activated an emergency response system, including counseling, updates, and financial/legal support for all affected families.