June 12, 2025: Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 – A London-bound Air India flight tragically crashed into a residential area near Meghani Nagar just minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport at 1:38 p.m. on Thursday. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI-171, was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
The crash, which occurred within five minutes of takeoff, has triggered fears of multiple casualties. According to early reports from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft issued a MAYDAY call to Air Traffic Control shortly after departure from Runway 23 but ceased communication soon after. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick black smoke rising from the crash site.
Also Read: What Does the Horrifying Crash Video of AI-171 Reveal?
The flight was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 hours of flying experience, and First Officer Clive Kunder, who had logged over 1,100 hours.
The passengers included:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 1 Canadian national
- 7 Portuguese nationals
The UK Parliament addressed the unfolding situation, with Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell offering condolences and pledging full support to affected families. “This is an unfolding tragedy. The government will provide all necessary support in India and to those awaiting news in the UK,” she said.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also expressed his shock, writing, “Deeply shocked by the horrifying crash of Air India Flight AI171. My thoughts are with everyone affected. Hoping every possible effort is underway for rescue and relief.”
In response to the tragedy, flights to Ahmedabad from Kerala have been temporarily suspended as emergency operations continue.
Air India issued a statement on social media:“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today. We are ascertaining details and will share updates via our official platforms.”
Rescue teams, fire services, and aviation authorities are currently working at the crash site. The cause of the crash is under urgent investigation.