A devastating incident occurred today, June 12, 2025, as Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The crash has resulted in the tragic loss of 133 lives, with many others injured. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members.
The aircraft crashed in a residential area near the airport, specifically in Meghani Nagar, causing significant damage to the surroundings. The impact and subsequent fire resulted in thick plumes of smoke billowing from the crash site,可见度差，导致了救援工作的难度增加。Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, and personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were immediately dispatched to the scene.
The flight manifest indicated that the passengers included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals. Among the passengers, it is feared that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also on board.
Air India has issued a statement confirming the incident, stating that "Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025." The airline has expressed its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the devastating event.
In response to the crash, Air India has established an emergency helpline number, 1800-569-1444, to provide assistance and information to the families of passengers. The airline has also set up a support team to assist families seeking information and has activated an emergency center.
Several authorities have also established helpline numbers to assist those affected by the crash. Ahmedabad City Police has released an emergency number, 07925620359, for police emergency services and information regarding the crash. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has activated an Operational Control Room, with contact numbers 011-24610843 and 9650391859. For British nationals requiring consular assistance or with concerns about family and friends, the UK government has provided the number 020 7008 5000.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have faced technical issues shortly after takeoff. Aviation experts have suggested that the heavy fuel load for the international route could have worsened the post-crash fire, complicating rescue efforts. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
The incident has prompted reactions from various leaders and officials. India's Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, expressed his shock and devastation, assuring that all aviation and emergency response agencies have been directed to take swift and coordinated action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed his condolences, describing the incident as "heartbreaking beyond words."
