On the morning of June 12, 2025, India witnessed one of its most devastating aviation disasters. Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad. The tragedy claimed over 269 lives, making it India’s deadliest single-aircraft crash in history.
What Happened?
Air India Flight AI171 was scheduled to fly from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. Just a few minutes after takeoff, the aircraft stalled at 600–650 feet altitude and crashed into the hostel of B.J. Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area. A massive explosion followed, causing widespread panic, destruction, and loss of lives on the ground.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene, with smoke rising and screams echoing through the area.
Key Details at a Glance
- Flight No.: AI171
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (VT-ANB)
- Route: Ahmedabad ➝ London Gatwick
- Date: June 12, 2025
- Fatalities:
- 241 onboard
- 28 on the ground
- 60+ injured on ground
- Survivor: One passenger, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, survived with critical injuries.
Notable Victims
Among the deceased were former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, several doctors, students, and international citizens from UK, Canada, Portugal, and India.
Investigation & Black Box Recovery
The NSG recovered the black box and cockpit voice recorder the same day. Preliminary reports suggest a technical failure or stall during climb.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with Boeing and GE Aerospace, is currently leading the investigation.
A “Mayday” signal was recorded just seconds before the plane disappeared from radar.
Government & Public Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site, met injured victims, and announced full government support.
The Tata Group (owners of Air India) announced an immediate ₹1 crore compensation per victim, with ongoing support for families.
Condolences poured in from global leaders including:
- UK’s King Charles III
- PM Keir Starmer
- U.S. Secretary of State
- Canada and Portugal officials
Survivor’s Story: A Ray of Hope
The only survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, was seated at 11A. His quick response and seat location near an emergency exit helped him escape before the aircraft was completely engulfed in flames. He is now recovering in a hospital under high security.
Emotional Impact and National Mourning
This disaster has left a permanent scar on Indian aviation. Memorials and tributes are pouring in online and across cities. A national day of mourning was observed on June 13, 2025, with flags flown at half-mast.
Students and doctors from the college hostel, who lost their lives, are being remembered with candles, prayers, and emotional tributes.
Why This Matters
This is a wake-up call for aviation safety standards, emergency preparedness, and timely maintenance checks. With the Dreamliner being one of the most advanced jets, the crash raises serious questions about operational protocols.
Final Thoughts
As India mourns the lives lost in this tragic incident, the hope remains that the truth will come out through a transparent investigation. Let us stand in solidarity with the families of those affected and push for stronger safety measures.
May all the souls lost in the AI171 crash rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends left behind.
