Ahmedabad: A tragic aviation disaster struck Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon when an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after take-off, carrying 242 people, including 232 passengers and 10 crew members.
Flight AI171, operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM and met with the accident moments after takeoff, just outside the airport premises. The crash resulted in a massive fire and plumes of thick smoke, as seen in disturbing videos circulating online.
According to the airline, the manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian passenger. Rescue operations were launched immediately, with emergency services rushing to the site and hospitals placed on high alert. The exact number of casualties or survivors is yet to be confirmed, though several injured passengers have been transported for urgent medical care.
Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off.
The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are…
— Air India (@airindia) June 12, 2025
Airindia flight crashed 😑
See the shocking video 😤 pic.twitter.com/pK0uFwkpi5
— Jitin Sharma (@jitin84) June 12, 2025
Air India, in an official statement, confirmed the incident and has activated an emergency response team. A dedicated passenger helpline—1800 5691 444—has been established for families seeking information.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep sorrow, posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. My thoughts are with everyone affected. I’m in touch with Ministers and authorities to ensure swift support.”
The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu also responded, saying:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and every effort is being made to provide medical aid and relief. I am personally monitoring the situation.”
Authorities have cordoned off the crash site and are conducting a detailed investigation into the cause of the accident. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have been roped in.
This is one of the most serious air disasters involving a commercial Indian carrier in recent years, raising questions about aircraft safety and maintenance protocols. Further details are awaited.
