Emergency response underway after Air India plane crashes near Ahmedabad airport
A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operated by Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon, triggering a massive emergency response. Flight AI171, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, was carrying 242 passengers and crew when it went down minutes after departure.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft lose altitude rapidly before crashing near the airport perimeter. Thick plumes of smoke were visible from the site as fire tenders and ambulances rushed to the scene.
What we know about the crash
- Timing: The incident occurred between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM local time.
- Altitude: Preliminary data suggests the plane reached approximately 825 feet before descending abruptly.
- Passenger breakdown: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens were on board.
Air India confirmed the incident in a statement:
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
The airline has activated a 24/7 helpline for concerned families: 1800 5691 444.
Rescue operations and official response
More than two dozen ambulances were dispatched to the crash site, with several injured passengers already transported to nearby hospitals. Authorities have cordoned off access roads to facilitate emergency operations.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu, expressed shock over the incident:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”
London Gatwick Airport, the flight’s intended destination, also issued a statement confirming the tragedy.
Air India and Tata Group respond
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, conveyed his condolences:
“With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171 was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected.”
Industrialist Gautam Adani also expressed grief, stating:
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss.”
Investigation underway
Aviation authorities have launched a probe into the cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and aircraft manufacturer Boeing are expected to assist in the investigation.
