An Air India Ahmedabad flight going from Ahmedabad to London crashed just minutes after takeoff on June 12, 2025. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was carrying 242 people, including the former Gujarat Chief Minister, Vijay Rupani.
Sources say that around 100 bodies have been recovered so far. Serious concerns over flight safety have been raised by the disaster, which has prompted a significant emergency reaction.
Air India Ahemdabad Flight AI171 Crashed Minutes After Takeoff
Flight AI171 took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM. Within five minutes, it lost altitude and crashed into a residential area in Meghani Nagar. Reports say the plane had reached about 825 feet before suddenly dropping.
Firefighters and medical teams quickly reached the crash site. Meanwhile, thick smoke rose from the area and was visible from afar. To aid rescue efforts, authorities deployed over 24 ambulances to transport injured passengers to nearby hospitals. Consequently, they halted airport operations and sealed off the area.
The flight carried 232 passengers, including 2 infants, along with 10 crew members. Among them, there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian. The flight was scheduled to land at London Gatwick at 6:25 PM UK time.
Following the crash, the Civil Aviation Ministry launched an investigation. Officials already stationed in Ahmedabad began gathering information immediately. The flight was operated by Captain Sumit Sabharwal and co-pilot Clive Kunder.
Vijay Rupani, Ex-CM, Among the Passengers
Reports indicate that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was on board the flight, listed as passenger number 12. Rupani served as Gujarat’s CM from 2016 to 2021 and held several significant roles in both state and national politics.
Originally born in Myanmar (then Rangoon), Rupani moved to India and rose through the ranks of the BJP. Over the years, he served as Rajkot’s mayor, a cabinet minister, and a member of the Rajya Sabha.
In response to the tragedy, Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran stated, “With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171… was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families.” Gautam Adani added, “We are shocked and deeply saddened… Our hearts go out to the families.”
A helpline number has been started for families: 1800 5691 444. Support teams are working to help those affected. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is now operational with limited flights. Passengers are requested to connect with the airlines for updated information. Please follow our social media channels for updates.