On June 12, 2025, a catastrophic aviation disaster struck Ahmedabad, India, when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, carrying 242 individuals—including 230 passengers and 12 crew members—plummeted into the Meghani Nagar residential area, resulting in the deaths of all on board and additional fatalities on the ground.
Flight Details and Immediate Aftermath.
Flight AI171 departed at approximately 1:38 PM IST. Mere minutes into the flight, the crew issued a distress “Mayday” call before losing contact with air traffic control. The aircraft reached an altitude of only about 625 feet before descending rapidly and crashing into a doctors’ hostel associated with B.J. Medical College. The impact caused a massive explosion, engulfing the area in flames and thick black smoke.
Rescue operations commenced immediately, with six teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and two units from the Border Security Force (BSF) deployed to the crash site. Despite their efforts, all 242 individuals on board perished, and at least five fatalities were reported among residents on the ground, with over 50 others injured.
Passenger and Crew Information.
The flight’s manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. One of the passengers on board was Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat.The cockpit was manned by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an experienced pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours.
Aircraft Profile
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the crash bore the registration VT-ANB and had been in service since January 2014. This incident marks the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 since the model’s introduction in 2011.
Investigations and Global Reactions
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Preliminary assessments suggest potential issues with the aircraft’s undercarriage and flap-retraction systems during ascent. Boeing and engine manufacturer GE Aerospace have pledged full cooperation and technical assistance in the ongoing inquiry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed deep grief, stating,
“The Ahmedabad tragedy has deeply shocked and saddened the nation.It is heartbreaking beyond words.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer conveyed condolences, describing the event as “devastating,” while King Charles III and Queen Camilla extended their sympathies to all affected.
Support and Relief Efforts
Air India has established emergency support centers to assist the families of victims, providing information and necessary aid. The airline’s chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, affirmed the company’s commitment to supporting affected families and collaborating with emergency response teams.
The Ahmedabad airport temporarily suspended operations to facilitate rescue and recovery efforts but has since resumed limited services.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 stands as one of the gravest aviation disasters in recent history, marking the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. As investigations continue, the global community mourns the loss and extends support to the victims’ families. This tragedy underscores the paramount importance of aviation safety and the need for continual vigilance in air travel operations.