The aftermath of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad is grim, with authorities continuing to survey the wreckage for bodies and body parts. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The disaster claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members on board.
The scene at the crash site is described as devastating. Rescue workers have been meticulously combing through the debris, which is scattered across a wide area, including the campus of BJ Medical College. Tragically, the crash impacted the college premises, resulting in fatalities and injuries among students and staff. Reports indicate that the aircraft struck a medical college hostel, leading to casualties on the ground.
According to reports, the confirmed casualties extended beyond the passengers and crew, with victims also including doctors, medical students, and their family members present on the college campus. First responders have been working tirelessly to recover and identify the deceased. Due to the intensity of the fire that erupted after the crash, many bodies are charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA testing for identification.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and British investigators. A high-level multidisciplinary committee has been formed by the Indian government to examine the causes of the crash, assess existing safety protocols, and propose enhanced guidelines for future incident management. The committee is expected to submit its report within three months.
A crucial breakthrough in the investigation came with the recovery of the flight data recorder, or "black box," from a rooftop near the crash site. The black box is expected to provide valuable insights into the circumstances leading up to the crash, including flight data and cockpit audio recordings. Authorities are analyzing the data to determine the sequence of events and identify any potential mechanical failures, human error, or other contributing factors.
In the wake of the tragedy, Air India has established dedicated hotlines to assist the families of the victims. The airline is also cooperating fully with investigators. The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a compensation of ₹1 crore for the family of each deceased passenger.
The sole survivor of the crash, a 40-year-old British citizen named Vishwaskumar Ramesh, is receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. He recounted his miraculous escape, stating that he "just walked out" of the burning wreckage. His survival is considered extraordinary given the scale of the disaster.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are focusing on identifying the victims and providing support to their families. The recovery efforts are ongoing, with teams meticulously searching the crash site for any remaining remains. The incident has raised concerns about aviation safety standards and the proximity of buildings to airport takeoff paths, prompting calls for a review of existing regulations.
