On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India. The flight, bound for London Gatwick Airport, carried 242 individuals—230 passengers and 12 crew members. All on board are presumed dead, marking this as the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 since its introduction in 2011 .
Flight Details and Crash Sequence:
Flight AI171 departed at 13:38 IST (08:08 UTC) from runway 23. Seconds after takeoff, the aircraft issued a mayday call to air traffic control, indicating a potential emergency. Radar contact was lost at an altitude of approximately 625 feet. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions and observing thick plumes of smoke as the aircraft descended rapidly into the Meghani Nagar residential area, striking a multi-story building that housed a doctors’ hostel associated with B.J. Medical College .
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Passengers and Crew:
The flight carried a diverse group of passengers: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian national. Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani . The crew comprised 12 members, all of whom are presumed to have perished in the crash.
Immediate Aftermath and Emergency Response:
Upon impact, a massive fireball erupted, engulfing the crash site and surrounding areas. Emergency services, including at least seven fire engines and multiple ambulances, were promptly dispatched. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for airport security, was among the first responders, activating emergency protocols to assist in rescue operations . All flights at Ahmedabad Airport were suspended immediately following the incident.
As of the latest reports, over 204 bodies have been recovered from the crash site, with many found within the wreckage and others in the surrounding buildings . At least 41 individuals, including medical students residing in the affected hostel, sustained injuries and were hospitalized .
Aircraft and Technical Details:
The aircraft involved, registered as VT-ANB, was an 11-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner powered by General Electric GEnx engines. Prior to this incident, the Boeing 787 had an exemplary safety record, with no prior fatal crashes since its introduction in 2011 . The aircraft had accumulated over 40,000 flight hours across more than 7,800 flights, indicating a history of reliable service .
Investigation and Preliminary Findings:
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary focus areas include the aircraft’s undercarriage position and flap-retraction status during the climb phase. Both Boeing and engine manufacturer GE Aerospace have pledged technical assistance to the investigation .
Government and International Reactions:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it.” He assured that all possible actions were being taken to assist those affected .
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the crash as “devastating” and extended condolences to the victims and their families. King Charles III and Queen Camilla also issued statements expressing their deep sorrow and extended condolences to all those affected, thanking the rescuers and emergency responders for their efforts .
Broader Implications:
This incident marks a significant moment in aviation history, being the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The crash has drawn global attention and prompted tributes from international leaders and aviation organizations. The aviation community is closely monitoring the investigation’s progress, as the findings may have far-reaching implications for flight safety protocols and aircraft design standards.
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is a profound tragedy that has affected numerous lives across multiple nations. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences and to honor the memory of those lost. In the meantime, the global community stands united in grief and support for the victims and their families.
