A catastrophic accident struck Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, when it crashed moments after takeoff on June 12, 2025. The flight, carrying 242 passengers and crew, plummeted into the Meghani Nagar residential area near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, just five minutes after departing. Thick black smoke and flames engulfed the wreckage, triggering widespread panic and a massive emergency response.
Who Was Onboard?
The flight carried a diverse group: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, confirmed via his boarding pass. The plane, under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with 8,200 hours of flying experience, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours, issued a distress "Mayday" call before losing contact with air traffic control. Unverified reports indicate that there may be up to 50 fatalities; however, official casualty figures have not been disclosed as rescue operations are still ongoing.
Immediate Response: A Race Against Time
Emergency services, including seven fire engines, over two dozen ambulances, and 90 National Disaster Response Force personnel, swarmed the crash site. The plane, heavily fueled for its long-haul journey, ignited on impact, complicating rescue efforts. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ordered a "war footing" response, establishing a green corridor to rush the injured to nearby hospitals. Air India activated a passenger hotline (1800 5691 444) and emergency support teams to assist families.
A First for the Boeing 787
The incident marks the first crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its 2011 debut, shattering its previously strong safety record. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 shows the aircraft reached 625 feet before descending at 475 feet per minute, losing signal seconds after takeoff. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau are probing the cause, examining black box data and crash site evidence.
Did you know?
Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner was the first model in Boeing’s Dreamliner series, introduced in 2011. This specific 787‑8 had been in service for around 11 years before 12th May crash, marking the first-ever hull loss of a Boeing 787 aircraft.
National and Global Reactions
Indian leaders expressed profound grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally coordinated with Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, who is en route to Ahmedabad to oversee operations. Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured full central government support. Internationally, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the scenes “devastating,” noting the 53 British nationals onboard. Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran emphasized support for affected families.
What’s Next?
Ahmedabad’s airport remains closed, suspending all flight operations. The crash site, a smoldering residential area, is cordoned off as investigators and rescuers work tirelessly. Air India pledges regular updates via its X handle (@airindia) and website (airindia.com). As the world watches, the focus remains on uncovering the cause and supporting the victims.
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