Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 – Tragedy struck Thursday morning when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, near the Meghani Nagar area close to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight had 243 people onboard, including passengers and crew.
Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion followed by a massive plume of smoke rising from the crash site. Videos circulating on social media showed the final seconds of the aircraft before it plummeted, just seconds after departure.
Crash Timeline and Preliminary Findings
According to aviation data, the aircraft reached an altitude of 625 feet and a speed of 174 knots before it lost contact with air traffic control. The wreckage landed near the airport’s outer boundary, causing significant damage and panic in surrounding areas.
A senior police officer confirmed,
“The crash occurred near the doctors’ hostel. Within minutes, police, fire brigade, and emergency responders were on-site. About 70–80% of the area has been cleared for rescue operations.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has dispatched its accident investigation team to determine the cause of the crash.
Government Response and Relief Measures
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation and has spoken directly with Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, who is en route to Ahmedabad to supervise rescue and relief efforts. An official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office noted that all relevant agencies are on high alert, and coordinated relief measures are underway.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Naidu expressed his concern:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. Rescue teams have been mobilized, and swift action is being ensured. Medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site.”
The Indian Air Force and Army units have also joined in the ongoing rescue efforts, providing medical aid and logistical support to local authorities.
Casualty Reports and Key Developments
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The crash involved 243 individuals, including passengers and crew.
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The former Chief Minister of Gujarat was reportedly among those onboard, though their condition is still unknown.
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Several injured individuals have been transported to nearby hospitals.
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Emergency teams continue to search for survivors amidst the wreckage.
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Initial debris has been found near the airport’s boundary wall, prompting further examination of flight path and mechanical systems.
Air India Issues Statement
Air India, in a preliminary statement, said:
“Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently verifying the details and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.”
Community and Local Impact
The crash has shocked residents of the Meghani Nagar locality, many of whom witnessed the explosion. Local hospitals have been placed on high alert, while fire and safety services continue to cool down hotspots at the crash site.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid the area and allow emergency services to carry out operations smoothly.
Next Steps
The focus remains on:
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Search and rescue operations for potential survivors
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Providing medical care to the injured
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Investigating the cause of the crash
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Offering support to affected families
A press briefing is expected later today from the DGCA and Civil Aviation Ministry, which may shed more light on the causes and consequences of this catastrophic event.
