Air India Flight AI-171 Crashes in Ahmedabad – 244 on Board

Ahmedabad, India (June 12, 2025) — A tragic incident unfolded this afternoon when an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, flight number AI-171, crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick and had 244 people on board.

What Happened?

The flight took off at approximately 1:38 PM IST, but within minutes, the plane lost altitude and crashed into the densely populated Meghani Nagar area, not far from the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud explosions followed by flames and heavy black smoke rising from the crash site. Multiple buildings and vehicles in the area caught fire due to the impact.

Initial flight tracking data shows that the aircraft climbed only to about 625 feet before it began descending rapidly. Communication with air traffic control was lost shortly after takeoff.

People On Board

According to official sources, the aircraft was carrying 232 passengers and 12 crew members, including two experienced pilots. Rescue operations began immediately, with fire brigades, ambulances, and disaster response teams reaching the location within minutes.

As of now, there is no official confirmation on the number of survivors or casualties. However, reports suggest that several passengers were rescued from the wreckage and transported to nearby hospitals. A green corridor was established to ensure quick medical response.

Government and Airline Response

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched an immediate investigation into the cause of the crash. Officials have secured the black box and flight data recorder, which will be analyzed for clues.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured full support to the victims and their families. “We are doing everything in our power to provide medical care and assistance,” he said in a press briefing.

Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran also issued a statement, saying, “This is a devastating moment for all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families. We are cooperating fully with investigators.”

Investigation Underway

This tragic crash marks the first-ever major accident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since the aircraft model entered service in 2009. The plane involved was reportedly well-maintained and had undergone routine checks just days before the flight.

Aviation experts say it is too early to determine the exact cause. Potential factors under consideration include engine failure, instrument malfunction, or pilot error. Weather conditions at the time of takeoff were reported to be normal.

The investigation is expected to take weeks, if not months, but initial analysis of flight data and eyewitness accounts will help form a clearer picture in the coming days.

Local Impact

The crash site is located in a busy residential zone. At least five houses and several parked vehicles were damaged. Local residents were seen helping in rescue efforts even before emergency services arrived. Authorities have temporarily evacuated nearby homes as a precaution against fuel leaks or further explosions.

Several people from the neighborhood have been hospitalized due to injuries from the blast and smoke inhalation. The local administration has set up emergency shelters for displaced families.

Conclusion

The crash of Air India’s AI-171 is one of the most serious aviation disasters in India in recent years. With 244 lives affected, the focus is now on rescue operations, medical care, and a thorough investigation. Officials, airline representatives, and emergency teams continue to work round-the-clock to manage the aftermath.

Stay connected with us for verified updates, statements from officials, and survivor stories as more details emerge about this shocking incident.