Air India Flight AI171 Crashes After Takeoff from Ahmedabad with 242 On Board

Ahmedabad, India — June 12, 2025

Tragedy struck in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad on Thursday when an Air India flight carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff. The flight, AI171, was en route to London Gatwick Airport.

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 p.m. local time. Just seconds after takeoff, the plane lost signal, and soon after, it crashed into a residential area near Meghani Nagar.

Emergency Response and Government Reaction

Authorities confirmed that 232 passengers and 10 crew members were on board. Emergency services rushed to the site, where massive fires were seen due to the aircraft's full fuel load. Rescue teams, including firefighters, ambulances, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are working round-the-clock to rescue survivors and provide medical aid.

Flight Details

The flight was scheduled to land in London at 6:25 p.m. local time. London’s Gatwick Airport also confirmed the incident and is coordinating with Indian authorities.

Flight tracking service Flightradar24 confirmed that the last signal from the aircraft was received just moments after takeoff.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the crash is not yet known. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a full investigation.

Support and Relief

Air India has set up an emergency helpline and support center for families of passengers. Local hospitals have been placed on high alert to treat injured passengers and residents affected in the crash area.

This is the first major crash involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner since its launch in 2011. Boeing has not yet issued a formal statement.