Date: June 12, 2025
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Aircraft: Air India Flight AI-171, Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Route: London Gatwick to Ahmedabad
Total Onboard: 242 (230 passengers, 12 crew members)
Incident Summary:
On June 12th, shortly after takeoff around 1:38 PM IST, the aircraft began losing altitude just seconds after climbing to about 625 feet. The pilot sent a “Mayday” distress call before the aircraft suddenly crashed into a medical college hostel building near the airport.
Casualties:
- Over 204 people confirmed dead, including passengers and individuals on the ground.
- 50+ medical students injured who were present in the hostel at the time.
- Only one survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, seated in 11A, suffered chest and facial injuries and is currently stable.
Scene of the Crash:
- Eyewitnesses reported a massive explosion and large columns of black smoke rising above the site.
- Several nearby buildings and parked vehicles were damaged due to the intense fire.
Rescue Efforts:
- Over 500 personnel from emergency services, fire brigade, and armed forces participated in the rescue.
- The site remained active for hours as teams searched for survivors and controlled the fire.
Investigation:
- Preliminary reports suggest a technical fault in the aircraft shortly after takeoff.
- Possible causes include engine failure or imbalance in weight distribution.
- Aviation authorities have begun full-scale investigations.
Official Responses:
- The Prime Minister called the incident “heartbreaking” and offered condolences.
- Home Minister and senior officials visited the site to review rescue operations.