A serious aviation disaster occurred on June 12, 2025, when Air India flight AI171, traveling from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had 242 people onboard including passengers and crew. The crash site was located near Meghani Nagar in Ahmedabad, causing devastation in a densely populated area.
Overview of the Flight and Timeline
Air India flight AI171 departed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 13:38 IST. Just moments after takeoff, a distress signal was transmitted when the aircraft reached about 625 feet altitude. The pilot issued a Mayday call due to technical anomalies, followed by an abrupt loss of communication with air traffic control. Within seconds, the plane lost altitude rapidly and collided with a multi-storey residential structure, which included a doctors’ hostel.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, delivered to Air India in early 2014. It had been in service for over a decade without major reported incidents. The pilot, identified as Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, had over 8,000 flying hours of experience. His co-pilot, Clive Kundar, was a junior officer with just over 1,000 hours. The weather at the time of departure was stable, with clear visibility and no environmental disturbances.
Fatalities and Casualty Report
Initial reports confirmed that all 242 onboard lost their lives in the crash. No survivors were found in the aircraft wreckage. The impact also caused damage and casualties on the ground. Several people residing or working in the building struck by the aircraft were either killed or seriously injured. Emergency personnel are still assessing the total number of ground victims.
Search and Rescue Operations
Emergency response teams, including the fire brigade, NDRF units, and the Indian Army, were dispatched within minutes. Firefighters battled intense flames while medics and police secured the area. Airport operations were temporarily suspended as authorities focused on recovery and evidence collection. Search operations included retrieving black box recorders and examining the site for structural damage.
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are jointly leading the investigation. Experts from Boeing and international observers are also expected to assist. Investigators are focusing on flight data recorders, technical maintenance logs, pilot communications, and aircraft history. A mechanical malfunction or sudden loss of flight control is currently among the suspected causes.
International Reactions
The crash drew global attention. Leaders from multiple countries, including the UK, Canada, and Portugal, expressed condolences due to their citizens being among the passengers. The Prime Ministers of both India and the UK issued public statements mourning the loss. Flags were lowered at government buildings and embassies observed moments of silence. The airline and the Indian government pledged full support to affected families and a transparent investigation process.
Impact on Aviation and Air India
This crash marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s modern history and is the first fatal loss involving a Boeing 787. The event has triggered concerns about aircraft safety protocols and maintenance quality. Air India has grounded several Boeing 787s for precautionary inspection. Airlines globally are reviewing emergency procedures for Dreamliner aircraft.
What Happens Next
Authorities will continue to investigate the crash using evidence from flight instruments and eyewitness accounts. Insurance and compensation proceedings are underway for victims’ families. Findings from the investigation may lead to updated aviation safety policies, both nationally and internationally.
This event will remain a reference point in the history of aviation accidents, demanding accountability, safety reforms, and renewed attention to aircraft reliability and pilot training.