Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Air India Flight AI-171 to London Crashes After Takeoff, 242 Feared Dead

In a heartbreaking incident that has gripped the nation, Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on the afternoon of June 12, 2025, between 1 PM and 2 PM.

The aircraft was carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Tragically, all onboard have been confirmed dead. The plane crashed into the Meghani Nagar locality, a densely populated area, striking a residential doctors’ hostel and causing a massive fire.

Sequence of the Crash

Shortly after departing the runway, the aircraft began losing altitude. Within minutes, it nosedived into the urban neighborhood, erupting in flames. Witnesses reported a loud explosion followed by a blaze engulfing multiple buildings.

Rescue efforts were hampered by fire and dense smoke. Authorities confirmed that at least 5 people on the ground also lost their lives, and several others were seriously injured.

Passengers on Board

The aircraft was carrying people of multiple nationalities, including:

• 169 Indians

• 53 British nationals

• 7 Portuguese citizens

• 1 Canadian national

Among the deceased were students, families, and international travelers headed to the UK.

Swift Emergency Response

Fire and rescue teams, along with the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities, were deployed immediately. The airport was temporarily shut to handle the crisis. Emergency teams battled flames for hours to reach the wreckage.

Air India and local authorities established help centers in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and London to support affected families with information, counseling, and logistics.

Condolences Across Borders

Leaders across the world reacted with grief:

• PM Narendra Modi and President Draupadi Murmu offered deep condolences.

• UK PM Keir Starmer and King Charles III expressed sorrow over the British casualties.

• Leaders from Portugal and Canada shared official statements mourning their lost citizens.

   Investigation in Progress

  The DGCA and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau are leading the probe. The flight data recorder (black box) has been recovered. Boeing, the FAA, and NTSB are providing technical assistance.

  This is the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since it began commercial operations in 2011.