A major aviation tragedy unfolded on Thursday as Air India flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The Boeing 787 aircraft was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight, piloted by Capt Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, departed at 1:39 PM IST from Runway 23. Moments after takeoff, the aircraft issued a distress “MAYDAY” call but subsequently lost all communication with Air Traffic Control. The plane crashed just outside the airport perimeter, with thick plumes of black smoke rising from the site.
Emergency services were immediately mobilised. Three teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were dispatched from Gandhinagar and Vadodara, totaling 90 personnel. Firefighters and rescue teams are on the ground, battling the flames and aiding survivors, although the extent of casualties is yet to be officially confirmed.
Air India confirmed the incident in a social media post, stating:
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep sorrow and said he was personally monitoring the situation. “We are on the highest alert. Rescue teams have been mobilised and all possible efforts are being made to provide medical aid and relief support,” he said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and assured full Central Government support. The Chief Minister has instructed top officials to ensure urgent rescue efforts and treatment for the injured. A green corridor has been created for rapid medical response, and hospitals have been directed to prioritise emergency care for crash victims.
This crash marks one of the most severe air disasters in recent years. Further details regarding the cause of the crash and the condition of passengers are awaited.
