June 12, 2025: In a devastating aviation tragedy, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, en route to London Gatwick. The aircraft plummeted to the ground and exploded in a massive fireball at 1:38 PM, just minutes into its journey.
The flight, AI171, was carrying 232 passengers and 10 crew members, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed in an official statement.
Shocking Video Captures Final Moments
A video circulating on social media shows the aircraft flying unusually low, seemingly struggling to gain altitude. Moments later, it crashes into the ground and erupts in a violent explosion, sending a towering plume of smoke into the air.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying sight as the aircraft spiraled downwards and burst into flames upon impact. “It looked like the plane couldn’t climb. Within seconds, there was a loud blast,” said a local resident.
Experienced Pilots, Emergency Call
The DGCA revealed that the flight was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours of experience. The pilots reportedly issued a Mayday call moments before the crash.
Massive Emergency Response Underway
Emergency response teams, including fire brigades, airport rescue units, and at least two dozen ambulances, rushed to the crash site. Authorities have confirmed that injured survivors have been taken to nearby hospitals. The area has been cordoned off, and traffic has been diverted to allow swift rescue operations.
Official Statements
Air India issued a brief statement acknowledging the incident:
“Flight No. AI171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in an incident today. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“I am personally monitoring the situation. All aviation and emergency response agencies have been directed to take swift and coordinated action. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
Investigation Launched
The DGCA, along with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), has initiated a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. Black box recovery and forensic analysis are expected to provide critical insights.
As of now, the number of casualties remains unconfirmed, though sources suggest a high fatality count is feared