A Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, operating as Air India Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, tragically crashed just moments after lifting off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The aircraft had 242 souls aboard—217 adults and 11 children—hailing from India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. The crash occurred in the Meghani Nagar area, colliding with a doctors’ hostel nestled in a residential zone.
🎤 Voice of the Incident
At 13:39 local time, Flight AI171 issued a “Mayday” after takeoff. Seconds later, communication with air traffic control ceased. Eyewitnesses captured the fleeting ascent of the aircraft and a sudden explosion, followed by immense flames and thick, black smoke rising above homes near the runway. Emergency teams swiftly loaded the wounded into ambulances.
Casualties and Nationalities
- Passengers: 242 (230 passengers + 12 crew)
- Children: 11
- Nationalities: 169 Indians, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese, 1 Canadian
- Ground site: At Least 30 People Confirmed Dead in Air India Flight AI171 Crash Near Ahmedabad.
Emergency Response & Authorities
Rescue services—including seven fire tenders and multiple ambulances—quickly sealed off Meghani Nagar to reach the crash site. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose home state Gujarat was directly impacted, instructed full mobilisation of relief forces. The UK Foreign Office confirmed close cooperation with Indian counterparts for victim support. The airport suspended all operations immediately.
Must Read: Air India Flight AI171 Crashes After Takeoff from Ahmedabad with 240 Onboard
Aircraft & Investigation
The aircraft, tail number VT‑ANB, one of Boeing’s most modern long-haul jets since its 2011 debut, lost contact at around 625 feet altitude. This marks the first hull loss of a 787 and Air India’s most serious crash since 1985. Boeing confirmed its awareness of the incident; investigations are underway under the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
How Many People Died in the Air India Flight AI171 Crash Near Ahmedabad?
Historical Context
India has faced few fatal commercial aviation disasters since 2000. The last major incident was in 2020: an Air India Express Boeing 737 that overshot the runway at Kozhikode, causing 21 deaths. This current event stands among the most devastating in recent decades.
What Lies Ahead
A comprehensive inquiry into maintenance, crew decision-making, environmental factors, and potential mechanical failure is ongoing. Both Air India and Boeing have pledged full transparency.
Conclusion
The AI171 calamity has cast a pall over global aviation safety. Amidst the tragedy, rescue personnel and support teams are working ceaselessly to aid survivors, comfort families, and uncover the tragedy’s cause.
