Ahmedabad, India — June 12, 2025
In one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent years, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning. The tragedy has claimed over 290 lives, including both passengers and civilians on the ground.
What Happened
The aircraft departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport and reached an altitude of just 625 feet before losing lift and crashing into a residential area and a medical college hostel in Meghani Nagar, just 3.3 km from the runway.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by a massive fire that engulfed buildings and vehicles in the vicinity. Local residents and emergency responders rushed to the scene in a desperate attempt to rescue survivors.
Casualties and Survivors
- Total people onboard: 242 (230 passengers, 12 crew members)
- Confirmed deaths: Over 290 (including at least 204 onboard and 86 on the ground)
- Survivors: 1 confirmed—identified as Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British national currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Five medical students were among those killed when the plane crashed into a college hostel. Emergency workers are continuing to search through the debris for possible survivors or remains.
Aircraft and Technical Concerns
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the crash was considered one of the safest and most advanced commercial aircraft. Initial reports indicate the landing gear was still extended and flaps were not fully deployed, suggesting a potential configuration or mechanical failure. The Digital Flight Recorder (Black Box) has been recovered and is being examined.
This marks the first-ever fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 since the aircraft’s debut in 2009.
Response and Investigation
Fire and rescue services arrived within minutes, supported by military and medical teams. Airport operations were immediately suspended, and the crash site was cordoned off for investigation.
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal investigation in cooperation with Boeing, Air India, and international aviation safety bodies, including the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
Leaders from around the world, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have expressed their condolences. Boeing also issued a statement expressing “deep sorrow” and pledged full cooperation.
Global Impact
This accident has sent shockwaves across the global aviation industry, raising serious questions about aircraft safety, maintenance, and crew training. It is the deadliest aviation accident in India since 2020, and one of the worst worldwide in the past decade.
Conclusion
As the investigation unfolds, families mourn the tragic loss of loved ones in what is being called one of the darkest days in Indian aviation history. Flags have been lowered to half-mast, and a national day of mourning has been declared.
Authorities urge the public to avoid sharing misinformation and to support verified relief efforts for victims and their families.
