Latest update: 12-05-2025, 16:21
On June 12, 2025, at approximately 1:17 PM local time, Air India Flight AI171—a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad bound for London Gatwick. Just minutes after departure, the aircraft, carrying 242 people (230 passengers and 12 crew), crashed near the city’s Meghani Nagar area.
1. Time and Location of the Crash
The plane lost control almost immediately after takeoff, veering off the runway perimeter and impacting the ground nearby. Eyewitness footage shows large plumes of smoke and a massive fireball at the crash site.
2. Emergency Response
• Fire Services: Seven fire engines were deployed to the scene.
• Road Closures: Surrounding roads were quickly cordoned off to allow rescue teams unobstructed access.
• Medical Support: Injured passengers and crew were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
3. Aircraft and Route Details
• Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (Registration VT-ANB)
• Route: Ahmedabad (AMD) → London Gatwick (LGW)
• Investigation: India’s Aircraft Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a probe and will recover the flight data and cockpit voice recorders (“black boxes”) to determine the cause.
4. Potential Impacts
• Casualties: The final number of fatalities and injuries is not yet confirmed, as search and rescue operations are ongoing.
• Air Traffic Disruption: Operations at Ahmedabad airport may be temporarily suspended, potentially affecting international schedules.
• Safety Review: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners worldwide may undergo expedited technical inspections and safety audits.
5. Next Steps
• Official Investigation: The AAIB will analyze the black boxes and wreckage to establish the sequence of events.
• Airline Coordination: Air India and airport authorities will verify passenger manifests, provide support to families, and assist in repatriation where necessary.
• Government Oversight: Both central and state governments are coordinating to ensure timely updates and manage relief efforts.
