The crash of Air India Flight AI171 near Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, resulted in a devastating loss of life and has prompted immediate action from the Indian government. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, addressed the media following the crash, confirming that the Air India flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a tragic accident shortly after takeoff.
The Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people including 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 crew members, crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The crash occurred in the Meghani area of the city. Initial reports indicated 274 fatalities, including 33 on-ground deaths, however, recent reports indicate the death toll stands at 260. Of those on board, there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals. One passenger, identified as Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, miraculously survived the crash.
In the immediate aftermath, emergency services including fire engines, ambulances, and police were dispatched to the crash site. Minister Mohol assured that the central government would provide all necessary assistance to the state in managing the situation and investigating the crash. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Ahmedabad to assess the situation and ensure support for those affected. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the crash site and Ahmedabad Civil Hospital to meet with injured victims and bereaved families.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to conduct a formal investigation, potentially with a technical team from Boeing. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has also launched a probe into the cause of the crash. The two black boxes from the flight AI171 were recovered and transported to New Delhi for analysis. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu confirmed that the black box is being examined by the AAIB in India, dismissing speculations of sending it abroad for inquiry. According to a statement by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, data extraction from both black boxes has been completed and is currently under analysis.
The crash has had a profound impact on the local community. Eyewitness accounts suggest the plane lost altitude soon after takeoff and struck buildings in a residential complex. Residents in the vicinity of the crash site have been gripped by fear and panic, with many unable to sleep since the incident.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has resumed operations with limited flights. Passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for updated information. Air India has activated an emergency center and support teams to assist families seeking information. The airline has stated that its priority is supporting the affected people and their families and assisting the emergency response teams.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced multi-level investigations and safety reforms in response to the crash.
