A chilling video has emerged, capturing the horrific moment Air India Flight AI 171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 souls, including 232 passengers and 10 crew members, met a catastrophic end just minutes after lifting off.
The disturbing footage, captured by CCTV cameras and bystanders, shows the aircraft struggling to gain altitude, flying abnormally low before slamming into the ground with a deafening impact. The fully fueled jetliner, preparing for its long-haul journey to London Gatwick, erupted into a massive fireball upon impact, sending plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the pilots issued a "Mayday" distress call immediately after takeoff, but tragically, there was no response from the Air Traffic Control (ATC). Flight data indicates that the plane reached an altitude of only 625 feet at a speed of 174 kilometers per second before the crash. The aircraft crashed into a residential area called Meghani Nagar.
Air India has confirmed the incident and stated that they are currently investigating the details. In a statement, the airline said, "Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest." The airline has established a dedicated passenger hotline, 1800 5691 444, to provide information and assistance to those affected.
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the crash site, with dozens of ambulances and fire brigades working to control the blaze and provide medical assistance. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and has directed all relevant agencies to provide swift support. All flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have been temporarily suspended.
The crash has sent shockwaves throughout India and the international aviation community. President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep distress, calling it a "heart-rending disaster." Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened an emergency meeting with the Civil Aviation Minister and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to assess the situation and coordinate the response.
The Economic Times reports that the Ahmedabad plane crash may negatively impact Boeing plane orders.
The Tata Group, the parent company of Air India, has announced that it will provide Rs 1 crore in compensation to the families of each person who lost their lives in the crash. They will also cover medical expenses for the injured and support the rebuilding of the B J Medical's hostel, which was damaged in the incident.
