On June 12, 2025, a catastrophic event shook Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, the London-bound flight plummeted into the Meghaninagar residential area moments after takeoff, triggering a massive emergency response.
Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad: A Tragic Incident Unfolds
- Investigations underway to determine the cause, with airport operations suspended until further notice.
- 242 passengers and crew on board Air India Flight AI171, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff.
- Emergency response includes fire brigades, ambulances, and medical teams working tirelessly at the crash site.
The Incident: A Devastating Crash
What Happened?
At approximately 1:38 p.m. local time, Flight AI171 departed from Ahmedabad’s airport. Within minutes, the aircraft issued a distress “Mayday” call to Air Traffic Control (ATC) before losing contact. According to Flightradar24 data, the plane reached a maximum altitude of 625 feet before crashing outside the airport perimeter. Visuals from the scene depicted thick black smoke and flames, with debris scattered across the Meghaninagar area, raising fears of significant casualties.
Impact on the Ground
The crash site, a densely populated residential neighborhood, suffered severe damage. Parts of the aircraft reportedly struck buildings, intensifying the chaos. Local residents witnessed the explosion and subsequent fire, which complicated initial rescue efforts due to the aircraft’s heavy fuel load for the long-haul journey.
Emergency Response and Official Statements
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Emergency services, including seven fire brigades and numerous ambulances, were dispatched immediately. Injured individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals, though official casualty figures remain unconfirmed. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel directed officials to establish a green corridor to expedite medical treatment, emphasizing a “war footing” approach to rescue operations.
Government and Airline Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have closely monitored the situation, with Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu traveling to Ahmedabad to oversee relief efforts. Air India issued a statement acknowledging the “incident” and pledged to provide updates via its website and X handle. The airline’s chairman, N. Chandrasekaran, expressed profound sorrow, focusing on supporting affected families and coordinating with emergency teams.
Investigations and Airport Closure
Cause Under Scrutiny
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation to determine the crash’s cause, with a technical team from Boeing expected to assist. Initial reports suggest a possible technical malfunction during the aircraft’s climb, though no conclusions have been reached. The pilots, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 hours of experience) and First Officer Clive Kunder (1,100 hours), were highly trained, adding complexity to the inquiry.
Airport Operations Suspended
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has suspended all flight operations until further notice, disrupting travel plans and prompting passengers to check flight statuses. The closure underscores the severity of the incident and the need for a thorough investigation.
Moving Forward: A Nation Mourns
As rescue operations continue and investigations unfold, India grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy. The nation awaits clarity on casualties, survivors, and the cause, while global attention focuses on Ahmedabad. The resilience of emergency responders and the support of government officials offer hope amid profound loss.
