In a tragic incident that shook the nation and aviation industry alike, Air India’s Flight AI 171, operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The devastating crash not only ended the lives of more than 200 passengers but also ended the decade-long fatality-free record of the Dreamliner fleet.
Tata Group’s Financial Aid Announcement
In the wake of this horrifying accident, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, stepped forward with a significant relief measure. Chairman N. Chandrasekaran issued a heartfelt message expressing grief and promising support to the families of those who lost their lives:
“We are deeply anguished by the tragic event involving Air India Flight 171. No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured.”
The Tata Group announced a compensation of Rs. 1 crore for each family who lost a loved one in the crash. Additionally, the company has committed to covering all medical expenses of the injured survivors.
Support Beyond Compensation
The Tata Group has also pledged to contribute towards rebuilding the BJ Medical Hostel, which was partially destroyed during the crash as the aircraft fell into a residential area in Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad. The initiative reflects their commitment to the larger community affected by this catastrophic event.
“We will provide support in the building up of the BJ Medical’s hostel,” read the statement issued by the Tata Group.
The Sole Survivor: Ramesh Vishwaskumar
Among the 242 people onboard, only one survivor has been identified – Ramesh Vishwaskumar, a 38-year-old British Indian national. He was seated in seat 11A, located near the emergency exit. His survival is being termed a miracle.
Ramesh was traveling back to London after visiting family in Gujarat. His brother, Ajay Kumar Ramesh, was also on the flight, and his condition remains unknown.
In an interview with News18, Ramesh recalled the horrifying moment:
“There were bodies all around me, there were pieces of the plane all around me. Someone grabbed hold of me and put me in an ambulance.”
A viral video shows a visibly shaken Ramesh being helped into an ambulance as onlookers tried to make sense of the tragic event.
Eyewitness Accounts & Timeline
- Flight AI 171 took off at 1:38 PM IST.
- Within 30 seconds, passengers reported unusual sounds and vibrations.
- The aircraft lost contact with ATC shortly after.
- It crashed into a densely populated residential zone, colliding with a medical hostel.
Government’s Response & Investigation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the crash. Emergency services, including NDRF and fire brigades, were deployed immediately. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a full-scale investigation.
A Nation Mourns
As India grapples with this disaster, tributes and condolences continue to pour in. The crash not only raises questions about aviation safety but has also highlighted the urgent need for improved emergency response infrastructure at airports and residential areas near flight paths. Tata Group’s swift response and compassionate aid bring a ray of hope and humanity in this dark time.