Air India Flight AI 171 Crashes After Takeoff from Ahmedabad: Dozens Dead, Investigation Underway

On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick, crashed just after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, carrying 242 people (230 passengers and 12 crew), descended into the Meghani Nagar residential area approximately 625 ft above ground, resulting in a massive fireball and thick black smoke.

Casualties & Rescue Efforts

- Fatalities: At least 30–35 bodies have been recovered from the crash site and nearby building rooftops; the death toll is expected to rise.

- Injuries and Ground Impact: Several residents were injured after the aircraft struck a doctors’ hostel; ambulances and NDRF teams responded urgently .

- Emergency Response: Over five firefighting teams and dozens of ambulances were deployed; all airport operations in Ahmedabad were suspended.

Passengers & Nationalities

- Passenger Snapshot: Onboard were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian, according to Air India.

- Notable Passenger: Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among those on the flight.

Official Reactions

- Air India: Set up family assistance hotlines and confirmed active support for those affected.

- Government Leadership: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the tragedy as “heartbreaking beyond words,” while UK PM Keir Starmer offered condolences.

- Civil Aviation Minister: Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu declared a “highest alert,” directing all agencies to provide urgent assistance.

Aircraft & Investigation

- Plane Details: The aircraft (registration VT‑ANB) was delivered to Air India in 2014. This marks the first-ever fatal hull loss of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

- Investigation: India’s AAIB and DGCA have launched investigations. Cockpit voice and flight data recorders (“black boxes”) will be crucial in determining cause, though early speculation points to possible engine failure or bird strike.

This is all the information we have at the moment. Stay tuned for more updates...

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