The nation is in deep mourning following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The London-bound flight, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed into a residential area near the airport, resulting in the deaths of 241 people. Only one passenger, a British man named Vishwashkumar Ramesh, miraculously survived the disaster.
The crash site was a scene of devastation, with the aircraft having plummeted into the B.J. Medical College hostel mess, where over 100 students were gathered for lunch. The impact caused a massive explosion, with a towering plume of smoke visible from afar. Dozens on the ground, including students, were among the casualties. The sole survivor, Ramesh, who was seated near an exit door, recounted a loud noise shortly after takeoff, followed by the immediate crash.
News of the tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the crash site and meeting with injured victims in the hospital. Condolence messages have poured in from leaders around the world, including Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who extended his deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims.
The aviation community and experts are now focused on determining the cause of the crash. Preliminary investigations are underway, with speculation ranging from engine failure to issues with the aircraft's flaps. Ahmed Busnaina, an airplane engineer, suggested that engine failure is a leading possibility, particularly during takeoff when maximum thrust is required. Flight tracking data indicates that the plane lost signal less than a minute after takeoff, reaching an altitude of only 625 feet (190m). A mayday call was issued by the aircraft, but no further response was received.
The tragedy has deeply affected the entertainment industry as well. Celebrities have taken to social media to express their grief and offer condolences. Singer Rahul Vaidya expressed his shock and sadness on Instagram, writing, "Have no words for the Air India Crash... It's made me go numb. Worst aviation disasters. Om shanti." Actress Rupali Ganguly described the visuals of the crash as "heart-wrenching" and offered prayers for the safety of all passengers and crew members. Many other celebrities, including Karan Tacker, Karan Kundrra, and Hina Khan, have also shared messages of grief and support for the victims and their families. Actress Kavita Kaushik shared a message urging people to value life and practice compassion in the wake of the tragedy.
The Air India crash is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India in recent decades, drawing parallels to the 1978 Air India Flight 855 crash in Mumbai. As the nation mourns, investigations continue to uncover the reasons behind this devastating event, and support is being offered to the families who have lost loved ones.
