Air India Dreamliner Crash in Ahmedabad Kills 241, Leaves One Survivor: India’s Deadliest Air Disaster in Years
Ahmedabad – In a devastating turn of events, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI-171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, June 12, 2025, killing 241 people onboard. The crash is being termed one of the worst aviation disasters in Indian history.
The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick and had 230 passengers, 10 cabin crew, and 2 pilots aboard. It crashed into a densely populated residential area near BJ Medical College, engulfing buildings in flames and triggering a large-scale emergency response across the city.
One Survivor Among 242 Onboard
Of the 242 people onboard, only one person survived — a British national of Indian origin seated in Seat 11A. The individual is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital under critical care. Doctors said the patient’s condition is “serious but stable.”
Nationalities of the Passengers
Air India confirmed the nationalities of the passengers in its statement:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
Crash Timeline and Location
According to the official timeline:
- Time of Takeoff: 1:38 p.m. IST
- Flight Number: AI-171
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (12 years old)
- Crash Site: Residential complex near BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad
Within minutes of departure, the aircraft lost control and plummeted into the congested neighborhood, igniting a massive fire. Fire brigades, police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and medical teams rushed to the crash site to douse flames, rescue victims, and cordon off the area.
Air India’s Official Statement
Air India confirmed the crash through an official statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“Air India confirms that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on 12 June 2025, was involved in an accident. The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew. The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off. We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital.”
“Air India offers its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of all those affected, their families and loved ones. A team of caregivers from Air India is now in Ahmedabad to provide additional support.”
Emergency Helplines Established
To support families of the victims, Air India has activated emergency helplines:
- India Toll-Free: 1800 5691 444
- International: +91 8062779200
Air India stated that further updates will be provided via their official website and social media channels.
Investigation and Response
The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Ministry of Civil Aviation have initiated a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. A technical team from Boeing and representatives from the United Kingdom’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) are expected to arrive shortly.
The Flight Data Recorder (black box) and Cockpit Voice Recorder have been recovered and are being analyzed.
Sources close to the investigation have not yet confirmed the exact cause, but initial reports suggest possible engine failure or critical loss of control shortly after takeoff.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise followed by an explosion and flames before the aircraft plunged into the buildings.
Emergency Response: Flames, Rubble, and Despair
Residents near the crash site described the scene as catastrophic. "It felt like an earthquake. Then we saw the fireball," said Amit Patel, a student at BJ Medical College. Several apartments and part of the intern doctors' hostel were damaged by the impact.
City hospitals were placed on high alert, and emergency teams worked for hours to retrieve remains and douse flames.
Reactions Across India and the World
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and ordered a high-level inquiry. World leaders, including the UK Prime Minister, Portugal's President, and Canada’s Foreign Minister, sent condolences and offered technical support.
Air India, which is under the Tata Group, has pledged full cooperation and support to grieving families. CEO Campbell Wilson is expected to address the media shortly.
Aircraft Details and History
The ill-fated aircraft was a 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, known for long-haul routes. It had reportedly undergone routine maintenance just 3 weeks prior to the crash. Aviation experts are now reviewing the aircraft's maintenance history, crew training records, and air traffic communication logs.
This is the first fatal crash involving an Air India Dreamliner and the most deadly crash involving an Indian airline since the 2020 Kozhikode runway incident, which killed 21 people.
Looking Ahead: National Mourning and Accountability
In the wake of this horrific tragedy, the Indian government may declare a national day of mourning. Flags across government buildings are likely to fly at half-mast.
There are growing calls for more rigorous aviation oversight, particularly concerning aging aircraft, pilot training standards, and emergency response systems.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Flight No. | AI-171 |
| Route | Ahmedabad to London Gatwick |
| Aircraft | Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner |
| Takeoff Time | 1:38 p.m. IST |
| Crash Site | Near BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad |
| Fatalities | 241 |
| Survivor | 1 (British national of Indian origin) |
| Passengers’ Nationalities | 169 Indians, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, 1 Canadian |
Final Word
As India grapples with the horror of this aviation disaster, grief, questions, and a desperate search for answers remain. For now, the priority lies in helping the bereaved, supporting the lone survivor’s recovery, and uncovering the truth behind a crash that has shaken the nation.