An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon.
The aircraft, bound for London, plunged into the Meghani area of the city, sending up a massive plume of black smoke and triggering an immediate emergency response.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), there were 242 people on board the aircraft — 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members.
The aircraft was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, with first officer Clive Kundar.
The flight was heavily fueled for the long-haul journey, adding to the intensity of the explosion and fire that followed the crash.
Multiple fire engines and ambulances have been sent to the crash site to carry out rescue operations.
There is currently no official confirmation on casualties.
Officials have yet to release a statement on the suspected cause of the crash.
A senior police officer said, “As per preliminary information, a London-bound Air India flight has crashed at the doctors' hostel. Within 2–3 minutes, police and other agencies reached the spot. Almost 70–80% of the area has been cleared. All agencies are working here.”
The UK government also responded to the incident, stating: "We are aware of a plane crash in Ahmedabad. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support to those involved. British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000."
Union home minister Amit Shah has spoken to Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel, state home minister Harsh Sanghavi, and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner regarding the incident.
Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel has reached the site.
Air India, in its first official communication, said “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details.”
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran issues statement “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI 171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.
At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted.
Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support teams have been set up for families seeking information.”
Additionally, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad released a statement regarding airport operations: “June 12, 2025, Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport.
As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice.
Sources in the Ministry of Civil Aviation said that the Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with an investigation team, has left for Ahmedabad to probe the cause of the crash.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, instructing both to visit Ahmedabad and ensure that all possible assistance is provided to those affected by the crash.
“He has asked them to go to Ahmedabad and ensure all possible assistance is extended to those affected in the wake of the air mishap,” said a government source.
Adani Group chairperson Gautam Adani expressed his condolences on social media. He posted on X: "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground."
