On June 12, 2025, a catastrophic aviation disaster unfolded as Air India Flight AI171 crash a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming the lives of all 244 individuals on board. The aircraft, carrying 232 passengers and 12 crew members, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, plummeted into the densely populated Meghaninagar area, igniting a massive fire and causing widespread devastation.
Chronology of the Disaster
First, the flight departed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM IST. Then, shortly after, the crew issued a MAYDAY. Unfortunately, they lost communication moments later. Soon after, the aircraft crashed into a hostel belonging to B.J. Medical College. Witnesses saw it engulfed in flames with thick, black smoke rising above the neighborhood
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of the aircraft engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The impact caused significant damage to nearby structures, and debris was scattered across the crash site.
AI-171 crashes into medical college hostel injuring students
Air India Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday afternoon from Ahmedabad. The flight had 242 people on board. Reports from the state medical association notes that the aircraft crashed directly on the BJ Medical College UG hostel mess in Meghani Nagar.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
In the immediate aftermath, emergency services, including fire brigades, ambulances, and police units, were dispatched to the scene. Six teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising over 90 personnel, were mobilized from Gandhinagar and Vadodara to assist in rescue operations.
Despite the rapid response, the intense blaze and dense smoke hindered rescue efforts. Authorities established a green corridor to expedite the transportation of injured individuals to nearby hospitals. However, the severity of the crash left little hope for survivors
Victims and Nationalities
Air India confirmed that the flight carried 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. The presence of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani among the passengers added a political dimension to the tragedy. The loss has sent shockwaves through communities both in India and abroad.
RPF renders all possible help in rescue operation
RPF Disaster Management Team headed by ASC/ADI+6 staff along with Hospital Team (6 doctors+ 20 staff+ 7 Ambulance ) is rendering all possible help in rescue operation of Tragic Air India Flight Crash at Ahmedabad. Team Ahmedabad is helping all sister agencies in rescue work is is geared up if further assistance is required. Railway Ministry Spokesperson.
Heartbreaking beyond words: PM Modi on Ahmedabad air crash
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday (June 12, 2025) as heartbreaking beyond words and said it has “stunned and saddened us”
He said he is in touch with Ministers and other authorities who are working to assist those affected.
Reactions and Condolences
The tragedy has elicited an outpouring of grief and condolences from national and international leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and directed immediate relief measures. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu have assured full support and are closely monitoring the situation.
Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran conveyed profound condolences to the families of the victims and affirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting affected families and cooperating fully with investigative authorities.
Conclusion
The Air India Flight AI171 disaster stands as a somber reminder of the fragility of human life and the paramount importance of aviation safety. As investigations continue, the nation mourns the loss of 244 souls and seeks solace in the collective resolve to enhance safety measures and prevent future tragedies.
