Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Over 200 Feared Dead in Air India Tragedy
Ahmedabad plane crash, June 12, 2025 — A catastrophic aviation tragedy struck India this morning as Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, killing more than 200 people, including passengers, crew members, and individuals on the ground.
Crash Details
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport around 6:45 a.m. local time. Within minutes of takeoff, the pilots issued a Mayday call reporting severe technical issues, reportedly involving loss of lift and an engine malfunction. Despite efforts to stabilize the aircraft, it crashed into a doctors’ hostel and nearby residential buildings in the densely populated Meghani Nagar area of the city.
Casualties and Nationalities
The aircraft was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, totaling 242 people on board. Authorities have confirmed over 100 fatalities, with many more feared dead. The passenger manifest included 169 Indian nationals, along with citizens from the UK (53), Portugal (7), and Canada (1).
On the ground, multiple medical students and residents were trapped in the collapsed hostel. Emergency crews have pulled out several bodies, with dozens still missing.
Emergency Response
Local fire brigades, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), medical teams, and law enforcement reached the crash site within minutes. Rescue operations continued for hours, with rescuers facing challenges due to fire, debris, and thick smoke. Hospitals across Ahmedabad have been placed on alert, and a helpline has been set up for families of victims.
Leadership Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling the incident “a national tragedy beyond words.” He assured that all necessary assistance would be provided to the victims’ families. Opposition leaders, state officials, and international figures including the UK Prime Minister and Indian-origin MPs in Britain, also offered condolences.
Aircraft and Safety Record
The crash of Air India Flight 171 marks the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its commercial debut over a decade ago. Known for its modern technology and fuel efficiency, the aircraft involved in the crash was delivered in 2014 and had undergone regular maintenance, according to preliminary airline statements.
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India, and Boeing engineers, along with experts from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), have launched a joint probe. Early indicators suggest a possible combination of engine thrust loss, software anomaly, and landing gear deployment issues.
The aircraft’s black box (flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder) has been recovered and is being analyzed for more detailed insights.
Flight Suspensions and Public Impact
Flights from Ahmedabad airport were temporarily suspended following the crash. Several incoming and outgoing flights have been rerouted or delayed. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the crash zone to aid rescue operations and maintain safety.
A Nation in Mourning
As the nation reels from the impact of this disaster, memorials and vigils are being planned across cities. Educational institutions, especially medical colleges, have observed moments of silence in honor of the victims, many of whom were young students.
Summary
The Ahmedabad plane crash involving Air India Flight 171 is one of the worst air disasters in India’s recent history. With over 200 lives lost or feared dead, and many injured on the ground, the incident has shaken the nation. Investigations are ongoing, and the government has pledged full transparency and support for affected families.
