In a tragic turn of events, an Air India aircraft crashed in Ahmedabad, killing over 200 people on board. The horrific incident sent shockwaves across the country, raising serious concerns about aircraft safety and emergency response. On Thursday afternoon, an Air India flight Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick, crashed, killing many on board, including 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew members.
Where Did The Air India Flight AI171 Crash?
- The Air India aircraft crashed in Ahmedabad’s Meghani Nagar area.
- Reports state that the plane crashed into residential sections near BJ Medical College.
- The Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner (Flight AI171) took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 p.m. IST and issued a distress mayday call but lost altitude and control within seconds.
- It reportedly lost signal at 625 feet and dropped rapidly.
- The incident occurred approximately five minutes after departure.
Crash Details Captured On Video
- Footage shows the aircraft flying at an unusually low altitude and struggling with lift.
- The video captures the moment it strikes the ground, resulting in a massive flame.
- The crash occurred around 1:38 p.m.
- According to DGCA, the aircraft sent out a Mayday call shortly after takeoff, signifying a grave emergency.
- Communication attempts by air traffic control went unanswered.
- The actual nature of the emergency is still under investigation.
Emergency Response And Rescue Operations
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel has ordered “immediate rescue and relief work” and arranged for “immediate treatment of the injured passengers on a war footing.” NDRF crews are actively performing rescue operations at the site.
What We Know So Far
- The specific reason behind the crash remains unknown.
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad has suspended all operations until further notice.
- The Boeing 787-8 was carrying 242 passengers, including:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 1 Canadian national
- 7 Portuguese nationals
Air India Statement On Ahmedabad Plane Crash:
“Flight AI171, which operates Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, June 12, 2025. We are currently gathering information and will provide further updates as soon as possible.”
Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Dies In Plane Crash
Vijay Rupani, former Gujarat Chief Minister (BJP), was among the passengers on board the ill-fated Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu to assess the situation. Narendra Modi posted on X:
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has shocked and saddened us. It’s heartbreaking beyond words. My thoughts are with everyone affected. I’ve been in contact with ministers and authorities working on relief efforts.”
Air India has established a dedicated helpline: 1800 5691 444.
Miraculous Survival Of Ramesh Vishwas Kumar
In an astonishing turn, Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, a 35-year-old software engineer from Delhi, miraculously survived the crash. He was seated in seat 11A, toward the rear of the aircraft. Ramesh shared:
“I don’t know why I’m here and the others aren’t. There was a loud blast, everything went dark, and the next thing I remember was choking on smoke and praying.”
Statements From Officials
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated:
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer posted on X:
“Scenes emerging of a London-bound plane crashing in Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families.”
Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran released a statement:
“With deep sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171 was involved in a tragic accident today. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones.”
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