The world is reacting with shock and grief following the crash of Air India flight AI-171 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport today, June 12, 2025. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick, crashed in the Meghani Nagar area, carrying 242 passengers and crew.
News of the disaster has prompted immediate responses from political leaders, aviation authorities, and the international community. Indian government officials are scrambling to provide support and assess the situation. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed his devastation, stating he is personally monitoring the situation and has directed all agencies to respond swiftly. He and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are en route to Ahmedabad to provide on-ground support. Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, addressed the media, confirming the crash and ongoing rescue operations.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel conveyed his deep sadness and has instructed officials to prioritize rescue and relief efforts, ensuring urgent medical treatment for the injured. Arrangements are being made for a green corridor to facilitate the transport of the injured to hospitals. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also expressed his concern and offered prayers for the safety of those on board. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called the crash "tragic" and stated she was praying for survivors. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also expressed her distress.
International reactions are pouring in as well. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov have expressed their condolences.
Air India released a statement acknowledging the incident and stating that they are currently ascertaining the details. The airline has activated emergency support teams for families seeking information. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has also issued a statement confirming the crash and the activation of emergency protocols.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft issued a "MAYDAY" call to air traffic control (ATC) immediately after takeoff but lost contact shortly thereafter. The aircraft, commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, crashed just minutes after departure from Runway 23.
Emergency services, including fire engines and ambulances, were immediately dispatched to the crash site. Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are involved in the rescue operations, which are being complicated by intense fires.
The sports community is also in mourning, with former cricketer Harbhajan Singh expressing his shock and anguish. Netizens are expressing their shock and grief over the air mishap.
The manifest indicates that the flight had 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals on board, in addition to the crew. Flight services to Ahmedabad airport from Kerala have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the aviation industry and has raised concerns about aviation safety. As rescue operations continue and investigations begin, the world watches and hopes for more information and, against the odds, signs of survivors.
