BREAKING NEWS: Air India Flight AI171 Crashes After Takeoff from Ahmedabad – Tragic Incident Leaves Nation in Shock

Date: 12 June 2025

Flight Route: Ahmedabad (India) to London Gatwick (UK)

Flight Number: AI171

Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

Passengers Onboard: 242 (230 passengers + 12 crew members)

A Black Day for Indian Aviation

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, met with a tragic accident shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport this afternoon.

The flight took off at approximately 1:38 PM IST but soon encountered trouble, sending out a distress (MAYDAY) signal within moments. According to aviation trackers, the aircraft barely climbed to 625 feet before losing altitude rapidly and crashing just outside the airport perimeter, near the Meghani Nagar area.

Eyewitnesses described hearing multiple explosions followed by a massive fireball. Thick black smoke filled the sky, visible from miles away.

 Flight Crew Details

The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with 8,200 flying hours, and Co-pilot Clive Kundar, who had clocked around 1,100 hours. Both are believed to have done their best to handle the emergency, but the situation deteriorated too quickly.

⚠️ Emergency Response in Full Swing

Following the crash, emergency services were immediately dispatched. Fire brigades, ambulances, and disaster response teams rushed to the scene. Nearby roads were cordoned off to facilitate rescue operations. The Gujarat government activated emergency medical services and green corridors to transport the injured to hospitals swiftly.

The airport was temporarily shut down to manage the situation and ensure safety.

 Official Statement from Air India

Air India issued a public statement via social media confirming the incident:

"Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently investigating the matter and will share further updates at the earliest." – Air India

A dedicated emergency response center has been set up by the airline to provide support and information to the families of the passengers and crew members.

Casualties and Survivor Information

As of now, there has been no official confirmation of the number of casualties or survivors. Rescue teams are working round-the-clock to identify victims and provide medical attention to the injured. Families have been requested to contact the airline helpline for assistance.

Investigation Underway

A full-scale investigation has been launched by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). Authorities are retrieving the flight data recorder (black box) and cockpit voice recorder to understand what went wrong.

Officials are also examining the aircraft's fuel levels, maintenance history, and weather conditions at the time of the flight. Early reports indicate the aircraft was fully fuelled for the long-haul journey to the UK, which might have intensified the fire.

Historic Significance of the Crash

This tragic crash is the first recorded crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner globally. The aircraft model, introduced in 2009, has a strong safety record with over 1,000 units in service worldwide. The implications of this incident may lead to a reassessment of safety standards for long-haul aircraft

Voices of Leadership

India’s top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, have expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is personally overseeing the local emergency response and has assured full government support for the rescue and relief operations.

Detail Information

Flight Number AI171

Departure Time 1:38 PM IST

Aircraft Type Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

Passengers + Crew 242 Total

Crash Location Meghani Nagar, near airport

Cause Under Investigation

Response Teams Firefighters, NDRF, Police, Medical

Airport Status Temporarily Suspended Operations

Airline Support Emergency Help Desk Activated

Final Words

The nation mourns as we await more clarity on the crash of Air India Flight AI171. This tragedy not only leaves hundreds of families devastated but also raises serious questions about air safety and emergency preparedness.

As investigations continue and the nation prays for the victims and survivors, we urge our readers to stay ca

lm, follow official updates, and respect the privacy of affected families during this difficult time.