The crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, near Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, marks a tragic first in the aircraft's operational history. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, claiming the lives of all 242 people on board, including passengers and crew. The incident has sent shockwaves through the aviation industry and prompted immediate investigations into the cause of the disaster.
Flight AI171 departed from Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM local time. Moments after takeoff, the pilots issued a "Mayday" call, but communication was lost shortly thereafter. The aircraft crashed in the Meghani area, near the airport, and close to a medical college, igniting a massive fire fueled by the plane's heavy fuel load. Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, police units, and six National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, were quickly mobilized.
Initial reports indicate the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet (190 meters) and a speed of 174 knots before it began a slow descent. Witnesses reported seeing the plane with its landing gear still extended before it crashed in a residential area. The impact caused a large explosion and fire, with debris scattered across a wide area. Tragically, the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner stated that there appeared to be no survivors.
The aircraft involved, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner registered as VT-ANB, was approximately 12 years old, having entered service in December 2013. Earlier in the day, it had flown from New Delhi to Ahmedabad. This particular aircraft was one of 27 Boeing 787-8s in Air India's fleet. The London-bound service was operated as a codeshare with Singapore Airlines, an equity partner of Air India.
Prior to this incident, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner had maintained a strong safety record since its introduction in 2011. With over 1,000 aircraft delivered and millions of hours flown, there had been no prior fatal crashes involving the Dreamliner. This record had led many to consider the 787 one of the safest and most reliable aircraft in operation. The crash in Ahmedabad is the first "hull loss" for the Dreamliner, meaning the aircraft is damaged beyond repair.
The crash has triggered widespread grief and concern. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, stating the tragedy was "heartbreaking beyond words." World leaders, including British King Charles III and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, also conveyed their condolences.
A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been dispatched to Ahmedabad to investigate the crash. Investigators will focus on several factors, including potential mechanical failures, weather conditions at the time of takeoff, and any other potential contributing factors. Given the Dreamliner's previously unblemished safety record, the investigation will be especially thorough to determine the cause of this unprecedented event.
In the wake of the tragedy, Boeing issued a statement saying it was "aware of initial reports" and "working to gather more information." The company has pledged its full support to the investigation. The incident has already impacted Boeing's stock price, with shares falling in pre-market trading.
The Ahmedabad crash is a watershed moment for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner program. While the investigation is ongoing, this event will undoubtedly lead to a reassessment of safety protocols and operational procedures for the aircraft. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in ensuring the continued safety of air travel and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
