In Air India Flight AI171 Crashes After Takeoff from Ahmedabad: Janhvi Kapoor, PM Modi Express Shock as Rescue Underway
The Trending People | June 12, 2025 —
In a devastating turn of events, Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on Wednesday, sending shockwaves across the country. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people on board, lost communication with air traffic control just minutes after lifting off from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST.
What We Know So Far
The aircraft, registration number VT-ANB, reportedly issued a mayday call moments after takeoff, before crashing just outside the perimeter of Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and rescue operations are ongoing.
In an initial statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Air India confirmed the incident:
“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 on airindia.com and on our X handle.”
Janhvi Kapoor Mourns Victims, Sends Prayers
Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor took to Instagram Stories to express her deep sorrow:
“Shaken by the news of the Air India flight crash that took place shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The weight of such tragedies is impossible to put into words.”
She added,
“Praying deeply for the passengers, the crew, and every family waiting for answers tonight.”
Her message resonated with thousands online as fans and fellow celebrities joined in expressing condolences.
🇮🇳 Government Responds Swiftly: PM Modi, Aviation Minister on High Alert
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the crash and is closely monitoring the developments. According to sources, he spoke with Union Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu, who is now on his way to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief efforts.
Minister Naidu shared his anguish on social media:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action."
Crash Location & Timeline
- Flight: AI171
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB)
- Departure: Ahmedabad (SVPI Airport), Runway 23
- Scheduled Destination: London Gatwick
- Time of Takeoff: 1:39 PM IST
- Time of Crash: Minutes after takeoff, outside airport perimeter
- Total People Onboard: 242 (Passengers + Crew)
Officials confirmed the aircraft lost contact with ATC shortly after the mayday call, and an investigation is now underway to determine the cause — whether it was mechanical failure, weather-related, or another issue.
What Could Have Gone Wrong?
While it’s too early for conclusive statements, aviation experts suggest the following possibilities:
- Engine malfunction or bird strike during initial climb
- Hydraulic failure or control system issues
- Crew disorientation due to technical anomalies
- Poor weather does not appear to have been a factor at the time
Investigators from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have been dispatched.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
As news of the crash broke, netizens flooded social platforms with messages of hope and grief. The hashtag #AI171 trended across X, with people demanding timely updates and transparency from Air India and the aviation ministry.
Families of passengers, many of whom had gathered at the Ahmedabad and Gatwick airports, await official word on the fate of their loved ones.
Air India’s Recent Record Under Scrutiny
The national carrier, now owned by the Tata Group, has faced mounting criticism over safety standards and technical glitches in recent months. Although major incidents have been rare, minor faults and emergency landings have been reported.
This latest incident — if confirmed as a major crash — could lead to a massive overhaul in safety inspections across India’s aviation ecosystem.
The Road Ahead
With investigations ongoing, the immediate priority remains rescue and recovery. Hospitals in Ahmedabad have been placed on high alert. Emergency hotlines are expected to be released shortly for families seeking information.
Air India, DGCA, and Civil Aviation Ministry will be under pressure to release accurate information quickly and support families of victims, if fatalities are confirmed