On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India. The flight was en route to London Gatwick Airport, carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. This devastating accident resulted in the deaths of 241 people, with only one confirmed survivor. The crash has been described as the deadliest aviation disaster in India in recent years and the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 since its introduction in 2011.
The Flight and the Crash
Air India Flight 171 took off from Ahmedabad at approximately 1:38 PM local time. Shortly after departure, the aircraft reached an altitude of 625 feet before experiencing a rapid descent. A mayday call was reportedly made, but no further communication was received from the cockpit. The plane crashed into the BJ Medical College building in the Meghani Nagar area, causing a massive explosion and intense fire. The crash resulted in the deaths of all but one person on board, as well as additional casualties on the ground, including medical students in the hostel struck by the aircraft.
The Sole Survivor
The sole survivor of the crash was Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British national who was seated in seat 11A. He recounted waking up amidst the wreckage and being rescued by bystanders. Ramesh’s miraculous survival has drawn significant attention and has been a focal point in media coverage of the tragedy.
Victims and Casualties
The flight carried 242 individuals, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The crash also resulted in the deaths of at least five medical students in the BJ Medical College hostel. The total number of fatalities, including those on the ground, is estimated to be over 260.
Emergency Response
Following the crash, emergency services, including multiple fire engines and ambulances, were promptly dispatched to the scene. A green corridor was established for ambulances, and hospitals were placed on high alert. The Indian Army was also deployed to assist in clearing debris and treating the injured. Flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport were suspended following the incident before resuming later in the day with limited capacity.
Investigation and Probe
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India, along with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), initiated an investigation into the crash. The United Kingdom’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board each sent a team to assist with the investigation. Preliminary analyses suggest that the aircraft’s landing gear may not have retracted properly, and the plane’s rapid descent shortly after takeoff raises questions about potential mechanical or human factors involved. Investigators are examining flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorders to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Reactions and Condolences
The crash has elicited widespread reactions from leaders around the world. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling it “heartbreaking beyond words.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also conveyed condolences, describing the incident as “devastating.” Boeing’s shares fell 5% following the incident, reigniting safety concerns after earlier Boeing aircraft accidents, including the 737 Max tragedies.
Air India’s Response
Air India, which was recently taken over by the Tata Group, has pledged full support to the victims and their families. The airline has established a caregiver team to assist those affected and is cooperating fully with the investigation. Tata Group has also pledged financial compensation for victims’ families and rebuilding efforts.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight 171 is a tragic event that has left a profound impact on the aviation industry and the families of those affected. While the investigation is ongoing, the incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and the need for continuous improvement in aviation safety standards. As authorities work to determine the cause of the crash, the focus remains on supporting the victims and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again.
