In a devastating aviation disaster, Air India Flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. The crash occurred near a medical college hostel in the densely populated Meghani Nagar area of Ahmedabad, making it one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in Indian history.
The Crash: 30 Seconds to Disaster
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM IST. Within 30 seconds, the aircraft lost altitude and slammed into the B.J. Medical College hostel premises. Witnesses reported hearing a deafening explosion followed by flames engulfing the surrounding buildings.
According to initial air traffic data, the aircraft reached only about 625 feet before plummeting, raising early concerns about engine failure or a control system malfunction.
Casualties and the Sole Survivor
The aircraft was carrying:
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230 passengers
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12 crew members
Of the 242 onboard, 241 were confirmed dead. Among the deceased were:
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169 Indian nationals
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53 British citizens
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7 Portuguese citizens
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1 Canadian national
In a near-miraculous twist, a 40-year-old British-Indian man, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, seated at 11A, was pulled from the wreckage with serious but survivable injuries. He is currently in critical condition under intensive care in Ahmedabad.
On the ground, 28 individuals, including medical students and staff of the hostel, also lost their lives, with over 60 others injured.
Nation and World Mourn
Condolences poured in from across the world. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the tragedy “heartbreaking beyond words,” while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III offered official condolences and support to the affected families.
Among the victims was Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, whose death has sent shockwaves through Indian political circles.
Investigation Underway
India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the probe with assistance from international partners:
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U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
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National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
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UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB)
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Boeing and GE Aerospace
Both the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) have been recovered. Initial analysis is expected within days, but a full investigation may take weeks.
Boeing Under Scrutiny
This is the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its introduction in 2011. Boeing has expressed “deep sorrow” and pledged full cooperation with investigators. Shares of the aircraft manufacturer have dropped by nearly 9% amid growing scrutiny.
Despite public concern, aviation authorities including the FAA have said there is currently no evidence to ground the Dreamliner fleet.
Support and Compensation
Air India, now owned by the Tata Group, has announced:
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₹1 crore (approx. £96,000) compensation for families of the deceased.
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Full medical and logistical support for the injured and the families.
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Dedicated helplines in Ahmedabad and Delhi for next of kin.
Counseling services and grief support centers have also been established in local hospitals and airports.
What Lies Ahead
The tragedy has raised serious questions about maintenance protocols, emergency response preparedness, and aviation safety in India and globally. Investigators will be focusing on mechanical records, recent repairs, crew performance, and flight control logs.
Meanwhile, the world waits for answers — and prays for healing.
Emergency Contact Numbers:
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Air India Helpline (India): 1800-22-5858
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Air India Helpline (UK): +44 20 3901 9090
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Ahmedabad Airport Inquiry: +91-79-2286-9211