On June 12, 2025, The aviation world was shaken by a devastating incident as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The flight was enroute to London Gatwick Airport, Carrying 242 individuals—230 passengers and 12 crew members.
The Incident
The aircraft took off at approximately 1:39 PM IST and issued a “Mayday” distress signal just seconds later. Tragically, the plane crashed into a densely populated residential area near Meghani Nagar, just outside the airport’s perimeter. The crash resulted in a massive fireball, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Emergency services, including multiple firefighting squads and ambulances, were rapidly deployed to the scene.
Passengers and Crew
Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was reported to be on board, though this has not been officially confirmed. The aircraft was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar.
Emergency Response
The crash prompted an immediate response from local and national authorities. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India have launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Emergency teams, including National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, were dispatched to the site for rescue operations. The intensity of the fire was exacerbated by the aircraft’s full fuel load for the long-haul flight.
Reactions and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has sent shockwaves across India and the international community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have expressed their condolences and pledged support for the affected families. Bollywood celebrities, including Vicky Kaushal, Janhvi Kapoor, and R. Madhavan, have also expressed their sorrow over the tragedy.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with authorities examining all possible factors, including mechanical failure, human error, and weather conditions. This incident marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a model known for its advanced technology and safety features.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is a heartbreaking reminder of the inherent risks of air travel. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of this tragedy and providing support to the families of those affected. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this devastating event.