Tragedy in Ahmedabad: Air India Flight Crashes, Over 250 Feared Dead

In a devastating incident on June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI‑171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, claiming over 250 lives. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London Gatwick, went down within minutes of departure, crashing into a residential building near B.J. Medical College in Meghaninagar.

The aircraft, carrying 242 people including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, sent out a distress call moments after takeoff before losing contact with air traffic control. Witnesses reported seeing the plane struggling to gain altitude and veering sharply before impact. Emergency services rushed to the site, but the scale of the disaster was very huge.

The flight was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an experienced pilot with over 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours. Both were trained for long-haul international operations.

This marks the first fatal crash and hull loss of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner globally, raising concerns within the aviation industry. Investigators are exploring multiple potential causes, including mechanical failure, engine thrust issues, or a possible bird strike.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed condolences to the victims’ families. Boeing has pledged full cooperation in the ongoing investigation, which now involves Indian and international aviation authorities.

The nation mourns as questions arise over how such a modern aircraft could suffer such a catastrophic failure so soon after takeoff.