🛑 Tragedy in the Skies: Air India Flight AI171 Crashes Near Ahmedabad Minutes After Takeoff
In what is being described as one of the worst aviation disasters in recent Indian history, an Air India international passenger flight — Flight AI171, operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner — crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The flight was bound for London Gatwick Airport and had 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. The incident occurred just five minutes after takeoff, at around 1:38 PM IST, sending shockwaves across the nation and the global aviation community.
🚨 Timeline of the Tragedy
1:32 PM IST – Flight AI171 takes off from Ahmedabad International Airport.
1:35 PM IST – The pilot issues a “MAYDAY” distress signal, reporting technical difficulties.
1:38 PM IST – The aircraft loses altitude rapidly and crashes into the Meghani Nagar residential area, just a few kilometers from the runway.
1:42 PM IST – Smoke and flames are visible from miles away. Emergency services are dispatched immediately.
Eyewitnesses described the crash as “sudden and horrifying.” Many residents of Meghani Nagar reported a loud explosion and felt their homes shake due to the impact. Video clips shared on social media show a massive fireball and thick, black smoke billowing into the sky.
🛩 Aircraft Details
Model: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Tail Number: VT-ANB
Aircraft Age: 9.5 years
Flight Route: Ahmedabad (AMD) → London Gatwick (LGW)
This aircraft was known for its advanced fuel efficiency and was a key component of Air India’s long-haul fleet. Until now, no major accidents had involved this particular type in Air India's service.
🧑✈ Passengers and Crew
According to early reports, the flight was nearly full, with over 230 passengers, many of them Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), business travelers, and students. The crew consisted of 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew.
While full casualty figures are yet to be officially confirmed, rescue teams on-site have reported extensive damage, with several passengers presumed dead or seriously injured. Survivors have been rushed to Civil Hospital and SAL Hospital in Ahmedabad.
Air India has activated an emergency response center and released helpline numbers for families of the victims.
🔥 Emergency Response
Ahmedabad’s emergency services responded within minutes. The fire brigade, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, local police, and medical teams worked tirelessly to control the blaze and begin rescue operations.
Over 100 rescue personnel were deployed, and 7+ fire tenders were at the site by 2:00 PM. The area was cordoned off as investigators from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) arrived.
🗣 Official Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, deeply saddened by the incident, tweeted:
“Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in the Ahmedabad crash. My thoughts are with the families of the victims. Rescue and relief operations are underway at full speed.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who hails from Gujarat, assured complete central assistance and coordination with state authorities.
Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu held a press briefing in Delhi:
“A full-fledged investigation is already underway. We are coordinating with Boeing and international experts to identify the cause. Our priority is to ensure accountability and support for affected families.”
❗ Investigation Underway
The black box and flight data recorders have been recovered and are being analyzed. Early speculation points to a possible engine malfunction or electronic system failure soon after takeoff. However, officials have urged the media and public not to jump to conclusions until the full investigation is complete.
Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, has also issued a statement offering technical assistance to Indian authorities.
🕯 A Nation Mourns
This incident has reignited concerns about aviation safety in India, especially concerning aging aircraft and maintenance protocols. The government has promised a complete audit of Air India’s long-haul fleet.
Memorials and condolence messages are pouring in from across India and the global Indian diaspora. Air India has declared a day of mourning and grounded other Dreamliner aircraft pending inspection.
📌 Summary Table
Detail Information
Flight Air India AI171
Route Ahmedabad (India) → London Gatwick (UK)
Aircraft Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (VT-ANB)
Passengers on board 230 passengers + 12 crew
Crash Time 1:38 PM IST, June 12, 2025
Crash Site Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad
Cause Suspected technical malfunction (under probe)
Rescue Ops NDRF, Fire Brigade, Police, Hospitals
Investigation DGCA, AAIB, Boeing cooperating
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