The crash of Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, has sent shockwaves across the globe. The aircraft, carrying 242 souls, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, met with disaster shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Eyewitness accounts and initial reports paint a grim picture of the final moments. According to FlightRadar24, the signal from the aircraft was lost less than a minute after takeoff. The aircraft only reached a maximum altitude of 625 feet (190 meters) before it began to descend. A mayday call was issued, but no further communication was received from the flight. The plane crashed in the Meghani Nagar, a residential area, and impacted a doctor’s hostel, according to police reports.
Videos circulating online show the aircraft flying low over buildings moments before disappearing from view, followed by a large explosion. Black smoke billowed into the sky, marking the spot of the tragic accident. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, including fire engines, ambulances, police units, and six teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
The aftermath of the crash is devastating. Rescue operations are underway, but the extent of casualties remains unclear. A police official stated to the Associated Press that there were no known survivors from the plane. The impact of the crash and the subsequent fire have caused extensive damage to the surrounding area, with reports of burnt buildings and significant destruction.
Air India confirmed the accident in a statement, saying they are doing everything to assist the emergency response teams and provide support to those impacted. Airport operations at Ahmedabad have been suspended until further notice.
The nationalities of those on board included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian national, and 7 Portuguese nationals. Injured individuals are being transported to nearby hospitals.
Political leaders have expressed their condolences and offered assistance. India's Union Home Minister spoke with Gujarat's Chief Minister and police commissioner, promising federal government aid. The aviation minister expressed shock and has directed all emergency agencies to take swift and coordinated action. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the scenes as "devastating," while Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the crash "extremely painful and shocking."
As rescue efforts continue and investigations begin, the world mourns the loss of life in this tragic event.
