Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 — Today is the dark day for Ahmedabad. What began as a routine international flight turned into an unspeakable tragedy on Wednesday afternoon, when Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed moments after takeoff, plunging the city into shock and sorrow.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, lifted off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 1:38 PM. Within minutes, it lost altitude and slammed into a residential area in Meghani Nagar, not far from the airport perimeter. The aircraft reportedly struck a doctors’ hostel, igniting a massive blaze.
A deafening roar — and then screams
Local residents described scenes of horror as the jet nosedived into their neighborhood.
There was a thunderous sound, and within seconds, flames were everywhere. We saw luggage, parts of the plane, and shoes scattered. We ran to help,” said Rakesh Solanki, a 38-year-old security guard who witnessed the crash from a nearby rooftop.
First responders, including firefighters, police, and emergency medical services, reached the scene within 15 minutes. Rescue operations continued into the evening as teams searched for survivors and tried to douse lingering fires.
The Victims: Families Torn Apart
While the final death toll is yet to be confirmed, early reports suggest many lives have been lost, both onboard and on the ground. Hospitals across Ahmedabad received injured survivors, many in critical condition.
Among the passengers were:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 from the United Kingdom
- 7 Portuguese
- 1 Canadian citizen
Dozens of families have already begun gathering at the airport, clinging to hope and praying for news of their loved ones.
What Went Wrong?
Though it’s too early to determine the exact cause, officials confirmed that the aircraft issued a distress signal shortly after takeoff. Investigators have recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders (black boxes), which are being analyzed by aviation experts from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
Technical sources indicated that the landing gear may not have retracted and the flaps remained extended—both unusual for a flight already airborne. Heavy fuel load could have intensified the post-crash fire.
This is notably the first-ever major crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its commercial introduction in 2011.
Official Reactions
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief and ordered all necessary support for the victims and their families.
This is a national tragedy. Our prayers are with the affected families. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing at full scale,” read a statement from the PM’s office.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the crash site and hospitals, assuring the public that every possible resource is being mobilized. Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has launched a high-level inquiry and said that transparency will be maintained throughout the investigation.
Air India, in a somber press release, offered condolences and announced a dedicated helpline for relatives of passengers.
Flights Suspended
All departures from Ahmedabad airport were temporarily halted following the crash. Flight operations have now resumed in a phased manner with tightened safety checks.
A Routine Flight That Never Returned
Flight AI171 was a daily non-stop route between Ahmedabad and London Gatwick. The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, had passed its last maintenance check just days prior. Pilots onboard were both highly experienced with over 20,000 hours of combined flying time.
This tragic incident has raised serious questions about aircraft performance, takeoff procedures, and airport safety, all of which will be scrutinized in the coming days.
“In a city known for its vibrant spirit and bustling skies, today brought silence, fire, and mourning. As black smoke clears over Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad—and indeed the world—grieves the loss of lives that were full of dreams, love, and future plans.
Let us remember them not just as passengers, but as parents, children, friends, and fellow human beings who boarded a flight that never made it home.”