Air India Ahmedabad–London Flight Crash: Full Details, Victims, Response & More

Tragedy in the Skies: What Happened to Air India Flight AI171?

In a devastating aviation disaster, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flying from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed within minutes of takeoff on June 12, 2025, killing all 242 people on board. The tragedy has sparked nationwide grief and global concern.

 Crash Details: Timeline of Events

• Departure Time: 1:38 PM IST from Ahmedabad Airport
• Crash Site: Near a doctor’s hostel attached to a local medical college
• Altitude Before Crash: ~825 feet
• Cause (Preliminary): Sudden descent after takeoff, suspected technical failure
• Distress Call: Pilot issued a mayday signal, followed by radio silence

Footage shows the aircraft flying at an abnormally low altitude, struggling with lift, before slamming into the ground and erupting into flames.

Passenger List: Nationalities on Board

• 🇮🇳 169 Indian nationals
• 🇬🇧 53 British nationals
• 🇨🇦 1 Canadian national
• 🇵🇹 7 Portuguese nationals
• 👥Total passengers and crew: 242

On-Ground Impact: Hostel Hit, Students Dead

Five medical students were tragically killed when the aircraft crashed into a residential hostel. Images from the site show debris in the dining hall, with plates of untouched food—a haunting scene of interrupted routine and sudden loss.

 Rescue and Emergency Response

• Over 25 ambulances and dozens of fire engines were rushed to the crash zone
• Injured bystanders and hostel residents taken to nearby hospitals
• Area cordoned off for rescue ops
• Passenger helpline activated:📞 1800 5691 444
• Emergency centres set up by Air India & Tata Group for relatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed shock and sorrow:

“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words.”

He added that central agencies and aviation authorities are actively coordinating relief efforts.

Investigation Underway

The Civil Aviation Ministry, along with DGCA, has initiated a high-priority investigation. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed:

“We are on highest alert. Rescue and investigation teams are working round the clock.”

The Air India crash marks one of the deadliest aviation incidents in Indian history. The nation mourns the loss of 242 lives, including students, families, and crew. The tragedy reminds us of the unpredictability of life and the importance of safety, compassion, and preparedness in moments of crisis.