Photo: Shutterstock Tragic Aviation Disaster in India.
A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 passengers and crew members crashed seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad, North-Western India, heading to London Gatwick Airport.
According to Air India, the aircraft held 220 passengers, 10 aircrew, and 2 pilots. The airline released the passengers' nationalities, noting that some survivors are reported:
- 169 Indians
- 53 British
- 1 Canadian
- 7 Portuguese
CISF X-postNatarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, stated: "With deep sorrow, I confirm that Air India flight 171 operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today".
He added: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event."
Regarding the situation on the ground, he said: "Right now, our primary focus is to support all affected individuals and their families. We are doing everything possible to assist emergency teams on-site and provide all necessary support and care to the victims. Further updates will be shared as verified information becomes available. An emergency center is established, and a support team is set up for families seeking information."
CISF X-postThe circumstances of flight AI171's crash are still unclear, but images and videos from Ahmedabad Airport indicate a severe disaster. The images show the plane failed to gain altitude, crashing to the ground seconds after takeoff before leaving the airport grounds.
This marks the first crash of a Dreamliner, Boeing 787, known for its reliability and in service for over 15 years with major global airlines, including El-Al. The plane that crashed in India, registered VT-ANB, was approximately 11 years old.
Following the crash of Air India Flight AI 171, which took off this morning (Thursday, June 12) from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad towards London, the airport management announced the suspension of all flight operations. According to the statement, the accident occurred shortly after takeoff, outside airport territory. All flights are canceled until further notice, and passengers are advised not to come to the airport and to check directly with airlines for updates.
— Ahmedabad Airport (@ahmairport) June 12, 2025
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for airport security in India, announced its personnel are at the scene of Flight AI 171's crash in Ahmedabad, immediately enacting emergency protocols. Rescue operations are coordinated with local authorities and emergency services. Their statement expressed solidarity with the victims and their families in this difficult hour.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) issued a condolence message after the tragedy in India, stating: "We are shocked and saddened to hear about the accident involving Flight AI171. Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, crew, their families, loved ones, and those affected by the accident."
European Union Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen sent a personal condolence message to India's Prime Minister Modi: "Heartbreaking news from India. My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones mourning this terrible loss. We share your pain, dear Narendra Modi. Europe stands in solidarity with you and the Indian people during this time of sorrow."
India's President, Droupadi Murmu, expressed deep sorrow over the disaster, noting: "A heartbreaking catastrophe. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims. The nation stands with them in this wordless difficult time."
Indian Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu also responded to the disaster, stating: "I am shocked and pained to hear about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on full alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have instructed all aviation agencies and emergency responses to take fast and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilized, and all efforts are underway to ensure swift medical and other support reaches the site. My thoughts and prayers are with the passengers and their families."
IndiGo Airlines, a competitor to Air India, expressed their sympathy over the tragedy: "We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident at Ahmedabad airport. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, and their families. We stand united with Air India in this challenging time."