AHMEDABAD, INDIA – June 12, 2025 – An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171 bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. The incident, occurring around 1:38 PM IST, has led to a massive emergency response and the temporary closure of the airport.
The aircraft, carrying approximately 242 passengers and crew members, went down in the Meghaninagar area, a residential locality close to the airport perimeter, just minutes after its departure. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick plumes of smoke and flames billowing from the crash site, causing widespread panic among local residents in areas like Vastrapur.
Immediate Response and Ongoing Operations
Emergency services, including multiple teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigades, ambulances, and police units, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Visuals from the site show a significant fire, reportedly intensified by the plane’s heavy fuel load. Roads adjacent to the crash site have been sealed off to facilitate rescue and recovery efforts.
As a precautionary measure, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has suspended all flight operations until further notice, advising passengers to check with their respective airlines for updates before heading to the airport.
Details Emerge on the Flight and Casualties
Flight AI171 was a long-haul Boeing 787 Dreamliner. While the exact number of individuals on board is being verified, reports consistently indicate around 242 passengers and crew. Air India has released a statement confirming the incident and is working to ascertain further details, which will be shared on their official website and X handle.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding casualties or survivors. The primary focus remains on rescue operations and providing support to the families affected by this tragic event. Authorities are actively working to contact the families of those on board and provide timely information.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has confirmed the crash of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Top government officials have responded to the incident. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly contacted the Gujarat Chief Minister to take stock of the situation. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed his shock and devastation, stating that he is personally monitoring the situation and has directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.
This is a developing story, and further updates are awaited as rescue operations continue and investigations progress.