The city of Ahmedabad is in mourning following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, 2025. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, claiming the lives of 274 people, including 241 passengers and crew, and 33 on-ground fatalities. The sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the local communities residing near the airport. The incident has reignited fears and concerns about the safety of living in close proximity to aviation hubs. Residents are now voicing their anxieties regarding the potential risks associated with increased air traffic and the possibility of similar accidents in the future.
The Air India flight AI171, carrying 242 people, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national, crashed into the Meghani area of Ahmedabad, a residential zone near the airport. The impact and subsequent explosion resulted in a massive fire, engulfing nearby buildings, including a medical college, and causing extensive damage. Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, adding a somber note to the tragedy.
Aviation experts suggest that "fuel contamination" may have been a possible cause. According to Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1339 IST (0809 UTC) from runway 23. The aircraft made a Mayday call to ATC, but thereafter, the aircraft did not respond to the calls. Immediately after departing Runway 23, the aircraft crashed outside the airport perimeter.
The crash site has become a scene of intense rescue and recovery efforts. Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, and city police, were immediately dispatched to the location. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed multiple teams to assist in the search and rescue operations. Authorities are working diligently to identify the deceased, many of whom were severely charred, using DNA matching techniques.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has recovered the flight's digital data recorder, commonly known as the black box, which is expected to provide crucial insights into the sequence of events leading to the crash. In the wake of the tragedy, the DGCA has also ordered enhanced safety inspections for Air India's entire Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 fleet to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The crash has not only caused immense loss of life but has also deeply affected the social fabric of the communities around the airport. Residents who once viewed the airport as a symbol of connectivity and progress now grapple with fear and uncertainty. Many are questioning the adequacy of safety measures and emergency response protocols in place to protect those living near airports. Calls for stricter regulations and improved infrastructure are growing louder as people seek reassurance and a sense of security in their neighborhoods.
The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has released a statement advising passengers to check with their respective airlines for updates before proceeding to the airport. While the airport has resumed operations with limited flights, the atmosphere remains heavy with grief and apprehension.
In the aftermath of the crash, Air India has announced additional compensation to the families of the victims and has established emergency helpline numbers for both domestic and international callers. Support teams have been set up to provide assistance and information to the affected families during this difficult time.
