Tragic Crash of Air India Flight Leaves Many Dead in Ahmedabad

On June 12, 2025, an Air India flight bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with registration VT-ANB, carried 242 individuals, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British passengers, seven from Portugal, and one Canadian.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight, designated AI171, lost contact shortly after takeoff at 08:08:51 UTC (4:08 PM Singapore time). The aircraft issued a MAYDAY call to air traffic control moments before it plunged down, crashing into a civilian area near the airport perimeter. Initial reports from emergency personnel indicate that at least 30 bodies have been recovered, primarily from a medical hostel that the aircraft struck during its descent.

Weather conditions at the time of the crash were described as stable, with light winds and clear visibility of 6 kilometers. Flight safety expert Marco Chan stated, "There were no significant clouds or weather phenomena reported, with no indications of wind shear or other adverse conditions that might have contributed to the incident" (Chan, 2025). Eyewitness accounts and visuals shared on social media showed debris ablaze and thick black smoke rising into the sky, highlighting the severity of the incident.

The Indian government has responded swiftly, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing his condolences on social media, stating, "The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. My thoughts are with everyone affected by it" (Modi, 2025). Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu confirmed that he is en route to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief operations, emphasizing the need for immediate support for the victims and their families.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also commented on the tragedy, acknowledging the devastating scenes emerging from Ahmedabad and expressing his thoughts with the passengers and their families during this distressing time (Starmer, 2025). Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel echoed these sentiments and ordered prompt rescue and medical aid for the injured.

This incident marks a significant tragedy for Air India, which has faced scrutiny following previous safety incidents. The last fatal crash involving the airline occurred in 2020, when an Air India Express flight overshot a runway, resulting in 21 fatalities. Following the recent crash, shares of Boeing fell approximately 5.6% in premarket trading, reflecting investor concern over safety and operational integrity.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is noted for its fuel efficiency and advanced design, but the aircraft model has been involved in several high-profile accidents in recent years, raising questions about manufacturing and operational standards. Air India operates a fleet of 34 Boeing 787 aircraft, with ages ranging from just over two years to nearly 14 years (Cirium, 2025).

In light of this incident, the aviation industry, regulators, and safety experts are likely to conduct thorough investigations to ascertain the causes of the crash and prevent similar tragedies in the future. The implications of this event extend beyond immediate rescue efforts, as they may influence public trust in aviation safety, regulatory scrutiny, and operational protocols across the industry.