ISLAMABAD: A catastrophic Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad airport has resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people, with only one survivor reported.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was carrying 242 passengers and crew, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, when it crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025.
The aircraft came down in a residential area, striking a medical college hostel during lunch hour, causing widespread devastation.
Crash Details and Rescue Efforts
According to city police chief GS Malik, 204 bodies have been recovered from the crash site so far, and relatives are providing DNA samples to assist with identification.
The crash occurred near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 pm local time.
Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off.
The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are…
— Air India (@airindia) June 12, 2025
Flight data shows the plane lost contact less than a minute after takeoff, following a “Mayday” emergency call.
Emergency responders quickly arrived on scene, working to clear the damaged area and tend to the injured.
The building struck was a doctors’ hostel, adding to the tragedy as many lives on the ground were also affected.
Official Statements and Investigation
Air India confirmed the aircraft’s details and expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
CEO Campbell Wilson described it as a difficult day for the airline and confirmed investigations would be thorough and time-consuming.
Authorities continue to assess the full impact, with some victims likely among those on the ground as well.
This disaster is considered the worst aviation accident globally in the past decade, marking a dark day for civil aviation safety.
The aviation community and governments worldwide are watching closely as inquiries proceed into the cause of the crash.
Families and loved ones await news amid ongoing rescue and identification efforts.
