Air India flight AI171 to London crashes moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025. All 242 onboard affected. Emergency response underway.
Air India London-Bound Flight Crashes Minutes After Takeoff in Ahmedabad | LIVE Updates
Ahmedabad | June 12, 2025 — In a devastating mid-day incident, Air India flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed within minutes of takeoff, sending shockwaves across the country. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 passengers and crew when it plunged near the Meghaninagar area, just outside the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The aircraft took off at 1:39 PM IST and went down at around 1:44 PM, according to DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) records.
✈️ What We Know So Far: Key Updates
- Flight Number: AI171
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
- Crash Location: Meghaninagar, near Ahmedabad Airport
- Time of Incident: Between 1 PM to 2 PM IST
- Total Onboard: 242 (2 pilots, 10 cabin crew, 230 passengers)
- Crash Altitude: The aircraft descended shortly after reaching 825 feet
- Crash Cause: Under investigation; preliminary signs suggest technical malfunction after takeoff
📍 Crash Site: Smoke, Debris, and Chaos
Visuals released by PTI and local media outlets show thick black smoke billowing over the crash site. The aircraft reportedly hit an open plot in the Meghaninagar residential area, just kilometers from the airport runway. Witnesses described a thunderous explosion and a fireball before debris scattered across the vicinity.
Emergency responders, including over 25 ambulances, fire rescue teams, and NDRF units, were immediately deployed to the area.
🧑⚕️ Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Medical teams and firefighters have confirmed that multiple injured individuals have been transported to hospitals including Civil Hospital and Shalby Hospital. Many passengers are reported to be in critical condition.
Rescue Details:
- Ambulances Dispatched: 25+
- Fire Tenders Active: 10+
- Injured Transferred: 80+ (and counting)
- Fatalities: Awaiting official confirmation
- Access Routes: Sealed off to ensure medical team mobility
📢 Official Response: “We Are On Highest Alert”
Air India’s Statement:
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently ascertaining full details and will provide updates on our website and X handle.”
Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the crash in Ahmedabad. I am personally monitoring the situation. Emergency teams have been mobilized, and every possible support is being extended to ensure rescue and medical aid.”
He confirmed that the DGCA and Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are jointly investigating the crash.
👤 Crew Information
The flight was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kunder as co-pilot. The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, had been part of Air India’s international fleet since 2017, with its last maintenance reportedly completed on 2 June 2025.
👁 Eyewitness Reactions: “A Loud Boom and Smoke Everywhere”
Residents near the crash site reported being jolted by a sudden explosion. One local, Kamlesh Patel, described the chaos:
“There was a massive sound. We saw fire and people running everywhere. Within minutes, fire brigades arrived.”
🗣 Government and Political Response
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel:
Rushed from Surat to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue efforts. Visited Civil Hospital to meet the injured.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah:
Spoke with Gujarat’s CM, Home Minister, and Police Commissioner. Assured central government assistance and coordinated emergency relief efforts.
🧠 Expert View: Could This Have Been Prevented?
According to aviation safety analyst Capt. Rajiv Mehta, the Boeing 787’s dual-engine system is designed to function even during partial failure. However, a catastrophic systems failure or engine fire during climb-out may have led to loss of life and loss of control.
“It’s too early to speculate, but early descent after 825 feet indicates a mechanical or flight control failure,” he said.
❓ FAQs: Air India Ahmedabad Crash
1. What caused the Air India AI171 crash?
The exact cause is under investigation. Early reports suggest the plane lost altitude rapidly due to possible technical failure.
2. How many passengers were onboard(AI171)?
A total of 242 individuals, including crew members, were on board.
3. Were there survivors?
Several passengers have been rescued and are being treated in hospitals. The full list of survivors is awaited.
4. What action has Air India taken()?
Air India has confirmed the incident and activated emergency protocols, offering help to affected families.
5. Is there an official probe(AI171 )?
Yes, both DGCA and AAIB are involved in a joint investigation.(AI171 )
For real-time updates and official investigation reports, visit the DGCA official website.
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