Air India Flight Crashes in Ahmedabad’s Meghani Area, Over 240 Onboard
A devastating plane crash occurred in Ahmedabad’s Meghani area on Thursday afternoon, when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. According to reports from the Times of India, the aircraft had 242 people on board, including 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members.
The flight, which was heavily fueled for the long-haul journey, crashed into the Meghani area, sending up a massive plume of black smoke and triggering an immediate emergency response. Multiple fire engines and ambulances were quickly dispatched to the crash site to carry out rescue operations. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, with first officer Clive Kundar.
The Times of India reported that the manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals. The UK government responded to the incident, stating: "We are aware of a plane crash in Ahmedabad. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support to those involved. British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000."
Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and directed officials to expedite rescue and relief operations at the crash site. In a statement posted on X, Patel said he had instructed the administration to arrange immediate medical care for injured passengers and ensure a green corridor was set up to transport them swiftly to hospitals. "I have instructed the officials to carry out immediate rescue and relief work and arrange for immediate treatment of the injured passengers on a war footing," he said.
Union home minister Amit Shah spoke to Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel, state home minister Harsh Sanghavi, and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner regarding the incident. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed that three teams (90 personnel) from Gandhinagar were immediately deployed, with three more teams moving in from Vadodara. Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran issued a statement, saying: "With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI 171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event."
The airport authorities have suspended all flight operations until further notice. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad released a statement regarding airport operations: "June 12, 2025, Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport. As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice." Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is expected to be led by the Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with an investigation team. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, instructing both to visit Ahmedabad and ensure that all possible assistance is provided to those affected by the crash. Sources in the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that the investigation team has left for Ahmedabad to probe the cause of the crash.
The incident has garnered widespread reactions, with Adani Group chairperson Gautam Adani expressing his condolences on social media. He posted on X: "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground." The incident is still under investigation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
According to the Times of India, rescue operations are ongoing, and the authorities are working to determine the cause of the crash. The newspaper reported that a senior police officer said, “As per preliminary information, a London-bound Air India flight has crashed at the doctors’ hostel. Within 2–3 minutes, police and other agencies reached the spot. Almost 70–80% of the area has been cleared. All agencies are working here.” The newspaper also reported that the Central government will provide all necessary assistance to the state in managing the aftermath and investigation of the crash.
