Ahmedabad Plane Crash 2025: Air India AI171 Disaster Kills 204
On June 12, 2025, tragedy struck Ahmedabad when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight, headed to London Gatwick, had 242 people on board. Sadly, 204 people died, and 41 were injured. This makes it one of the deadliest air disasters in Indian history.
What Caused the Ahmedabad Plane Crash?
The aircraft took off at 1:39 PM IST from Runway 23. Within minutes, the pilot issued a “MAYDAY” call. The plane crashed into the BJ Medical College doctors’ hostel in Meghaninagar, a densely populated area near the airport. Eyewitnesses saw a fireball and thick smoke rising in the sky.
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Impact
Locals reported the plane rapidly losing altitude. A hostel resident had to jump from the second floor to survive. Multiple buildings were damaged, and a massive fire engulfed the crash zone. Emergency services responded immediately.
Death Toll and Survivor Details
According to Ahmedabad Police, 204 passengers died while 41 were seriously injured. One miraculous survivor, Ramesh Vishwakarma, seated in 11A, is currently under treatment.
Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. His death deeply shocked the political community. Two crew members from Manipur and several Meghaninagar residents were also among the victims. The passengers included 169 Indians, 53 British, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese nationals.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Fire brigades, ambulances, police teams, and NDRF units from Gandhinagar and Vadodara reached the site within minutes. The Indian Army and CRPF supported the efforts. A green corridor was created to transfer the injured swiftly.
Air India arranged two relief flights for the victims’ families. A 24×7 helpline was launched:
- India: 1800 5691 444
- International: +91 8062779200
Reactions from Leaders and Investigation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the crash “heartbreaking” and ensured full support to victims’ families. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu promised a full investigation. UK PM Keir Starmer, former PM Rishi Sunak, and King Charles also expressed condolences.
The black box (flight data + cockpit voice recorders) will be key in determining the cause. A US aviation expert hinted at a possible technical configuration issue, pending official confirmation.
Closure of Ahmedabad Airport and Transport Arrangements
Flights at Ahmedabad Airport were temporarily halted. Indian Railways deployed Vande Bharat Express trains to help stranded passengers. Some flights resumed after emergency clearances.
National Mourning and Public Grief
Leaders from across India paid tribute. Families, such as that of Yasha Kamdar, who lost three members, are devastated. The entire country mourns together, awaiting answers and accountability.
Official Helpline Numbers
- Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad: 6357373831
- Air India: 1800 5691 444 (India), +91 8062779200 (International)
- Ministry of Civil Aviation: 011-24610843, 9650391859
Focus Keyphrase: Ahmedabad Plane Crash 2025
Date of Incident: June 12, 2025
