A tragic incident unfolded in Ahmedabad today, June 12, 2025, as an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, carrying 242 passengers and crew, plunged into the Meghani area of the city, triggering a massive emergency response.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reacted swiftly to the disaster, speaking with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. He has directed both ministers to immediately travel to Ahmedabad to oversee and ensure that all possible assistance is provided to those affected by the crash. According to government sources, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for comprehensive support in the wake of this air mishap.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has also publicly expressed his shock and devastation regarding the crash. He stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and has directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Naidu added that rescue teams have been mobilized and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are rushed to the site.
The aircraft, a wide-body Boeing 787 Dreamliner, had 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members. The flight was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, with first officer Clive Kundar. The aircraft was heavily fueled for the long-haul journey to London, which exacerbated the intensity of the explosion and subsequent fire after the crash.
In the immediate aftermath, multiple fire engines and ambulances were dispatched to the crash site to conduct rescue operations. While there is no official confirmation on casualties yet, initial reports suggest a challenging situation due to the intensity of the fire.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to initiate a formal investigation into the cause of the crash, and a technical team from Boeing may also be involved. The Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with an investigation team, has already departed for Ahmedabad to begin probing the cause of the accident.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has also responded swiftly, ordering immediate rescue and relief operations. He confirmed that he has instructed officials to arrange for immediate treatment of injured passengers on a war footing, including setting up a green corridor for swift transport to hospitals. Patel also stated that Amit Shah assured him of the full cooperation and support from the central government, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran issued a statement expressing profound sorrow and confirming the tragic accident involving Flight AI 171. He stated that the airline's immediate priority is to support all affected people and their families, and they are doing everything possible to assist emergency response teams and provide necessary care.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has temporarily suspended all flight operations until further notice due to the crash. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updates before heading to the airport.
