A devastating air disaster occurred in India today as an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad, resulting in multiple fatalities. The full extent of the casualties is still being determined, as emergency crews continue their operations at the crash site.
Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had taken off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at around 1:00 PM local time. Within minutes of departure, the aircraft went down in the densely populated Meghani Nagar neighborhood, which lies just beyond the airport’s perimeter.
Authorities have reported that the flight was carrying at least 242 individuals, including passengers and crew members. Local police confirmed the number while noting that search and rescue operations were actively ongoing.
The crash was officially confirmed by Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the Director General of the Directorate of Civil Aviation. In remarks shared with the Associated Press, he described the crash as a “grave incident,” emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also released a statement indicating that the aircraft had crashed just outside the airport boundary. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 revealed that the aircraft had climbed to an altitude of approximately 625 feet before radar contact was lost.
Horrifying scenes emerged from the crash site, where thick columns of smoke and fierce flames could be seen rising into the Ahmedabad skyline. Video footage shared by eyewitnesses captured the chaos as emergency vehicles sped through the narrow residential streets to reach the site of the wreckage.
Air India acknowledged the incident through an official statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently working to gather all relevant information and will continue to provide updates through our official platforms.”
The aircraft had been scheduled to arrive at London Gatwick at 6:25 PM UK time, according to airport authorities.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, expressed his sorrow and concern in the wake of the incident.
“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the news of the Air India crash. I am closely monitoring developments and have instructed all aviation and emergency services to respond with urgency and coordination,” he said.
“Rescue and medical teams have been dispatched to the location, and every effort is being made to deliver aid and support to the victims and their families. My heartfelt prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy.”
The incident has plunged the nation into mourning as officials work to determine the cause of the crash and assist those impacted.