London-bound Air India Flight AI171 Crashes in Ahmedabad, 242 Onboard

New York: A London-bound Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from the Indian city of Ahmedabad airport on Thursday (12 June 2025), killing dozens and injuring many others. The aircraft, operating as Flight AI171, was en route to London Gatwick when it went down in a residential area just minutes after departure.

There were 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Air India confirmed the aircraft crashed near Meghani Nagar, approximately three miles from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, after the pilot issued a distress call. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion, with thick black smoke rising from the crash site. Emergency teams from NDRF, fire services, and city hospitals were quickly mobilized.

Very shocked to hear about the #AirIndia Ahmedabad-London flight incident near Ahmedabad airport. Praying for the safety of all passengers and crew. 🙏#PlaneCrash #Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/jmKkgJbHeU

— TVK Vijay Trends (@TVKVijayTrends) June 12, 2025

Aircraft Lost Shortly After Takeoff

The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, tail number VT-ANB, delivered to Air India in 2012. Radar data shows it climbed only a few hundred feet before losing altitude and crashing around 13:38 IST. Rescue workers recovered at least 35 bodies from the debris, though the number is expected to rise as operations continue. Survivors with severe burn injuries have been rushed to civil hospitals across Ahmedabad.

Officials confirmed that nationals from India (169), the United Kingdom (53), Portugal (7), and Canada (1) were on the flight. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also reportedly among the passengers. His status remains unconfirmed at the time of publishing.

According to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, “no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC. Aircraft Immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site.”

Flight AI171 Crash Details: Timeline of the Tragedy

• Flight: AI171 | Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB)
• Route: Ahmedabad to London Gatwick
• Takeoff time: 1:38 PM IST, June 12, 2025
• Crash site: Meghani Nagar, ~3 miles from the runway
• Mayday issued: Within 2–3 minutes of takeoff
• Crash impact: Fire, visible smoke, building damage reported
• Onboard: 230–232 passengers + 12 crew = 242 total

Government and Global Response

India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Home Minister Amit Shah expressed condolences and have called for a full investigation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is monitoring the situation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also issued a statement offering support to affected families.

The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and Boeing have launched an investigation. Air India has suspended operations of similar aircraft pending safety checks.

This incident marks the first fatal crash involving the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a model previously touted for its advanced safety and fuel efficiency. Boeing stock fell over 7% in early trading following the crash.

Airport Operations Suspended

Ahmedabad airport has suspended all flight operations until further notice. Alternate arrangements are being made for outbound passengers. Relatives of those onboard AI171 have been directed to a helpline set up by the airline.

In Summary: A National Aviation Emergency

ZizzPost.com will continue to update this story as more verified information becomes available.