Date: June 12, 2025
Location: Ahmedabad, India
Flight: Air India AI171 (Ahmedabad to London Gatwick)
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Passengers and Crew: 244 (232 passengers, 12 crew)
Tragedy Strikes as Air India Flight AI171 Crashes Minutes After Takeoff
In a devastating aviation disaster, Air India flight AI171 bound for London’s Gatwick Airport crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, June 12, 2025. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 244 people, including passengers and crew.
The plane reportedly went down in a residential area of Meghani Nagar, a densely populated locality just minutes after departing at 1:38 PM IST
Timeline of the Crash
- Departure: 1:38 PM IST from Ahmedabad
- Crash Reported: Within 5 minutes of takeoff
- Altitude Before Descent: Approx. 825 feet
- Crash Site: Meghani Nagar, near the airport
- Visuals: Thick grey smoke, burning debris, and emergency chaos
Local visuals showed heavy smoke rising from the crash site, with fire brigade teams, ambulances, and police swiftly reaching the area. Authorities have sealed off the crash zone to facilitate rescue and relief operations.
Passenger Nationalities Onboard
According to Air India:
- 169 Indian Nationals
- 53 British Nationals
- 7 Portuguese Nationals
- 1 Canadian National
- 12 Crew Members
Emergency Response and Hotline Numbers
The airline has activated an emergency helpline (1800 5691 444) to assist families of those onboard. Over two dozen ambulances were deployed, and injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Fire and rescue teams continue to operate at the site under intense conditions.
Official Statements and Reactions
Air India
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are ascertaining details and will provide updates soon,” the airline said in its initial response.
Chairman N. Chandrasekaran (Tata Group)
“With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171 was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones affected. We are supporting emergency response teams and doing everything possible for the victims and their families.”
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu
“Shocked and devastated. Rescue operations are in full swing. I am personally monitoring the situation. All emergency protocols have been activated to ensure medical support and relief reach those in need.”
Gautam Adani
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our full support goes out to the families. We are working closely with the authorities.”
London Gatwick Confirms Arrival Details
The aircraft was scheduled to land at 6:25 PM (BST) at Gatwick Airport in London, which has now confirmed the crash and expressed sympathies with the affected families.
Crash Marks a Tragic Milestone for Boeing 787
This incident marks the first recorded crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in commercial aviation history. Introduced in 2009, over 1,000 Boeing 787s have been delivered globally, known for their advanced safety features and fuel efficiency.
Civil Aviation Investigation Underway
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation have launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest the aircraft lost altitude rapidly after reaching a height of just over 800 feet.
DGCA Director General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai confirmed that the aircraft crashed into a residential block and that rescue operations are continuing.
Conclusion: Nation in Mourning, Questions Arise
As the nation reels from this tragic event, questions about aircraft safety, emergency preparedness, and maintenance protocols are expected to dominate the national discourse. For now, all efforts are focused on rescue, relief, and support for the victims and their families.
🔗 Emergency Contact: 1800 5691 444
For families seeking passenger information, Air India has activated this toll-free number.
Stay Updated
We will continue updating this story as more information becomes available. Our thoughts remain with those affected by this devastating crash.
