An Air India flight destined for London Gatwick has tragically crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad, resulting in an undetermined number of casualties among passengers and crew.
Flight AI171, operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Ahmedabad Airport around 1:00 PM local time.
Indian aviation authorities report that the aircraft went down mere minutes later in the Meghani Nagar residential area, situated close to the airport’s perimeter.
Local police confirmed that at least 242 individuals were on board, with emergency response efforts currently underway.
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the Director General of the Directorate of Civil Aviation, verified the crash to the Associated Press (AP), characterising it as a “severe incident.”
Flight tracking service Flightradar24 indicated that the plane had reached an altitude of 625 feet before its signal was lost shortly after take-off.
Eyewitnesses captured footage showing thick flames and black smoke billowing into the sky as emergency services rushed to the scene.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated that the aircraft went down just beyond the airport’s boundary.
Air India confirmed the incident via a statement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently gathering details and will provide updates through our official channels.”
The flight was scheduled to arrive at London Gatwick at 6:25 PM UK time, as confirmed by the airport.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident.
“I am shocked and devastated by the news of the Air India crash. I am personally monitoring the situation and have instructed all aviation and emergency response agencies to act swiftly and cohesively. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all measures are being taken to ensure medical assistance and relief support reach the site promptly.
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone on board and their families,” Kinjarapu stated.
