An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, in the Meghani Nagar area near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad. The aircraft, carrying 242 people 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew crashed into the residential quarters of doctors at BJ Medical College, causing a devastating fire and widespread destruction.
Indian authorities have recovered 204 bodies from the crash site, including passengers aboard the plane and residents of the building it struck. Rescue operations are ongoing, with multiple fire engines, ambulances, and emergency personnel deployed to the scene. Many more are feared dead or injured, though official casualty figures are still being confirmed.
The flight was heavily fueled for its long-haul journey, which contributed to the intensity of the post-crash fire, complicating rescue efforts. Passengers included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. The crash marks the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have expressed deep sorrow and directed full support for rescue and relief operations. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has assured immediate medical care for the injured and established a green corridor for their swift transport to hospitals.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal investigation, with Boeing expected to assist. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft lost contact less than a minute after takeoff at an altitude of about 625 feet.
Air India confirmed the incident and is ascertaining details, while the airport has suspended all flight operations until further notice. The tragedy has shocked India and the international community, with ongoing efforts to account for survivors and victims.
Among the few survivors is British passenger Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who reportedly escaped by jumping from the aircraft seconds before impact and is currently hospitalized with injuries.
This remains a developing story as authorities continue rescue and investigation efforts.
