On June 12, 2025, an Air India flight (AI171) from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. This plane, called the Boeing 787-8, had 230 passengers and 12 crew members, totaling 242 people on board. It fell in the Meghani Nagar area, causing a massive fire and a significant amount of smoke. Everyone is shocked and worried about the people on board the plane.
Details of the crash
The flight took off at 1:38 pm, but sent an emergency signal only a few seconds later. It was able to reach only 625 feet in the air before crashing. People nearby heard loud explosions, and the fire spread rapidly, as the plane had a lot of fuel for the long journey to London. The crash damaged buildings in the area, and debris was scattered everywhere.
Rescue operations began swiftly
Fire brigades, ambulances, and disaster response teams rushed to the spot to help. Locals also joined in to rescue the stranded people. The government cleared the way for ambulances to take the injured to the hospital. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel asked officials to focus on rescuing people and helping the injured. The Ahmedabad airport is now closed, and no flights are operating.
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Leaders and support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to ministers to ensure that help reaches the crash site quickly. Home Minister Amit Shah promised full support from the government. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said he was saddened and was closely monitoring the situation. The UK, where the plane was headed, also offered help as the plane was carrying 53 British passengers, 169 Indians, seven Portuguese and a Canadian.
What next?
Experts are launching an investigation into why the plane crashed. This is the first time a Boeing 787 Dreamliner has crashed since it was built in 2011. Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said the airline is deeply saddened and will assist the families and rescue teams. A helpline (1800-5691-444) is available for anyone who needs information about the passengers.
People are praying for safety
The accident has left people in India and around the world deeply saddened. Former cricketer Yusuf Pathan shared, “Shocked to hear about the incident involving Air India Ahmedabad-London flight near Ahmedabad airport. Praying for the safety of all passengers and crew.” Many are praying for survivors, especially because former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was on the flight. Everyone is hoping for good news as rescue operations continue.