In a horrifying incident that has shaken the nation, an Air India flight AI171 heading from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed just minutes after takeoff on June 12, 2025, near the Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The aircraft was carrying 242 passengers, including two pilots and ten cabin crew members.
🔴 Watch: Thick Black Smoke Rises from Ahmedabad Airport After Crash
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Details of the Flight and Crash
According to an official statement by Air India, flight AI171 took off at 1:38 PM and tragically crashed within five minutes of departure. Visuals shared by news agency PTI show thick plumes of black smoke billowing from the crash site near the airport premises. All flight operations at Ahmedabad airport were temporarily suspended following the crash.
VIDEO | Ahmedabad: Smoke seen emanating from airport premises. More details are awaited.
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7)
(Source: Third Party) pic.twitter.com/qbO486KoEo
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 12, 2025
Statement From Air India
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025,”
Air India said in an official statement.
“We are ascertaining the full details and will share updates on our website and X handle.”
The aircraft was being commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar in the co-pilot seat. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, though early reports suggest an engineering fault, possibly linked to recent refurbishing of the aircraft.
Top Leaders React to Tragedy
India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the incident:
“I am shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. I’m personally monitoring the situation and have directed all emergency agencies to act swiftly,” he wrote on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took stock of the situation and directed authorities to ensure maximum support and relief for the affected passengers and families.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Emergency responders rushed to the crash site immediately after the incident. Firefighting, rescue, and medical operations were launched on a war footing. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel issued a statement saying:
“I have instructed officials to begin rescue operations immediately and to ensure the injured receive treatment without any delay. A green corridor is being arranged for medical transport.”
The Union Home Minister Amit Shah also communicated with Gujarat officials, assuring complete support from the central government.
Unconfirmed Reports: Was Vijay Rupani Onboard?
Adding to the uncertainty, unconfirmed reports suggest that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani may have been among the passengers. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his status or whereabouts at this point.
Tata Group Extends Condolences
Tata Group, the parent company of Air India, also released a statement:
“Our hearts go out to the families of those impacted. We are working closely with emergency teams and doing everything possible to support survivors and families.”
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a detailed probe into the crash. Aviation experts believe that a technical malfunction could be behind the accident, but black box data and maintenance records will be key to the final findings.
📝 Final Words
The crash of Air India flight AI171 is one of the most tragic aviation incidents in recent times. With over 240 lives at stake, the coming hours are crucial for rescue operations and uncovering the truth behind this catastrophic event.