Tragic Air India Flight 171 Crash Claims at Least 30 Lives Near Ahmedabad

The tragic Air India Flight 171 crash occurred on June 12, 2025, just minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad, India, bound for London Gatwick. At least 30 people are confirmed dead, with the death toll expected to rise. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed into a residential area near the airport, tragically landing on a doctors’ hostel.

Details of the Crash

The flight was carrying 242 people, including 217 adults, 11 children, and 2 infants. Passengers aboard the ill-fated flight came from various countries: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, one of the most modern aircraft in commercial aviation, had been in service since 2013, with Air India receiving the aircraft in 2014.

The crash occurred just moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. The aircraft issued a Mayday call signaling an emergency but lost communication shortly after. Flightradar24 reported that the last signal was received seconds after the plane took off, and rescue workers soon arrived on the scene to recover the bodies and clear the wreckage.

Casualties and Passenger Information

At the time of the crash, rescue workers recovered at least 30 to 35 bodies, and there were reports of injured survivors. Many of the victims were medical students residing in the B.J. Medical College hostel, where part of the plane crashed. The tragic event shocked local residents and caused panic, especially among those with loved ones on board. A relative of one of the passengers, Poonam Patel, shared her heartbreak when she learned that her sister-in-law was among those aboard.

Immediate Response and Rescue Operations

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, working tirelessly to save as many people as possible. Ambulances and stretchers were seen transporting the injured to local hospitals. Ahmedabad Airport temporarily suspended all flight operations while authorities began investigating the cause of the crash. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow and ordered full support for the ongoing rescue operations.

Global Reactions

Both the Indian and British governments responded swiftly, with officials offering condolences to the victims’ families. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer referred to the images emerging from the crash site as “devastating,” while Indian Prime Minister Modi called the incident “heartbreaking beyond words.” Additionally, King Charles was reportedly kept updated on the situation.

Investigation and Future Actions

The Aviation Safety Network has already begun the investigation into the cause of the crash, with Air India and Boeing pledging to cooperate fully. Boeing expressed its shock and commitment to gathering more details. Authorities have also activated emergency response centers to support the families of the victims. The Indian aviation minister’s office confirmed that investigations are underway, and Air India has established support teams for affected families.

Conclusion

The tragic Air India Flight 171 crash has left the world in shock, and the investigation into the cause continues. Authorities are working around the clock to support the victims’ families, and further updates will be shared as more information becomes available. The crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner marks a tragic day in aviation history, and it will be remembered as one of the most devastating air accidents in recent times.

References:

• Reuters.com, At least 30 killed as Air India plane with 242 on board crashes near Ahmedabad
• APNews.com, London-bound Air India flight with more than 240 aboard crashes after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India