In a tragic turn of events, the Air India crash involving Air India flight AI171 has shocked the world and left Indian aviation authorities scrambling for answers. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad and was bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff on Wednesday afternoon, June 12, 2025, with 242 people on board.
This marks one of the deadliest aviation incidents in India in recent years and raises significant questions about aviation safety, emergency response, and aircraft maintenance.
Moment captured in video:
Details of the Air India Crash
The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a long-haul plane typically used for international travel. According to Flightradar24, the last signal from the aircraft was received at 1:38 PM IST, only moments after takeoff. The Air India crash occurred just outside the airport perimeter in a residential neighbourhood called Meghani Nagar.
Moments of the crash [YouTube]
Authorities confirmed there were 232 passengers and 12 crew members aboard. The pilot gave a “Mayday” distress call shortly after takeoff but was unresponsive after that. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud boom, followed by thick black smoke rising into the sky.
Visuals posted on social media showed fire and debris strewn across the ground, as well as emergency responders evacuating passengers on stretchers and tending to the injured. The full extent of casualties and injuries is yet to be officially confirmed.
Spot of the crash [ABC]
Official Statements and Response
India’s Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed his grief, stating, “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”
Air India’s chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, released a heartfelt message: “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
He also noted that an emergency centre had been activated to support the victims’ families and coordinate with first responders.
Firefighters navigate through thick smoke on scorched roads. [Credit: AP]
What We Know About the Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, had a seating capacity of 256 passengers. The captain had more than 8,200 hours of flying experience, while the co-pilot had logged approximately 1,100 hours. While both were considered competent, aviation regulators have promised a full investigation into what caused the Air India crash.
As per the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the crash happened outside the airport boundary just minutes after takeoff from runway 23. The aircraft gave a “Mayday” emergency signal before it went off radar, a strong indication that the pilots knew something was wrong.
Cause of the Air India Plane Crash Still Unknown
Though early reports suggest the Air India plane crash might be related to engine failure or a technical malfunction, no official cause has been determined yet. Investigators from the DGCA, as well as Boeing and Air India representatives, are on-site to determine the root cause.
The DGCA’s director Faiz Ahmed Kidwai confirmed that all airport operations in Ahmedabad were suspended immediately after the incident. A green corridor was created to rush injured passengers to nearby hospitals.
Historical Context and Industry Reaction
This Air India crash is the most serious since the Air India Express disaster in 2020, where a plane overshot the runway in Kozhikode, killing 21 people. Industry experts warn that while air travel is generally safe, even a small lapse can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Aviation Minister Naidu emphasised the need for more robust safety audits across the country’s airports and fleets. “Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,,” he stated.
Passenger Manifest and International Coordination
The Air India flight crash has raised global concerns, especially as many on board were UK nationals or had connecting flights to Europe. Gatwick Airport in London confirmed it was expecting the flight and was in constant communication with Indian authorities.
“Flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25 UK time,” the airport stated.
We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25.
More information to follow. pic.twitter.com/nWcXcAF81a
— London Gatwick LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) June 12, 2025
A City in Shock
The Air India plane crash has left the city of Ahmedabad rattled. The crash site in Meghani Nagar is densely populated, which further complicates rescue and recovery efforts. Local volunteers joined emergency workers in assisting with evacuations and medical support.
Authorities continue to assess whether any civilians on the ground were injured as a result of the crash.
Moving Forward: A National Tragedy
This Air India crash has reignited discussions on India’s aviation safety standards, especially as the country seeks to expand its global air routes. For the moment, Air India has suspended all flights from Ahmedabad pending an investigation, and Boeing has pledged full cooperation.
As families mourn and the country processes the scale of this tragedy, one thing is clear: accountability and answers will be demanded.
