A major aviation tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad on Thursday, 12 June 2025. An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171, crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft was flying to London’s Gatwick Airport when it went down near the runway area.
All 242 Onboard Feared Dead
Air India confirmed that 242 people were on the flight—230 passengers and 12 crew members. Among them were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese citizens, and 1 Canadian national. Authorities have confirmed that no one survived the crash.
Plane Slammed Into Student Hostel, Burst Into Flames
The aircraft crashed into a student hostel building at BJ Medical College, located near the airport in the Meghani Nagar area. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a huge explosion and black smoke rising from the crash site. Video footage showed wreckage engulfed in flames. Medical students inside the hostel were caught in the chaos, though some managed to escape.
Mayday Call Sent, Then Silence
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST. Just minutes after takeoff, the crew sent out a Mayday distress signal. However, all communication was lost after that. The aircraft crashed a short distance from the airport perimeter.
Experienced Pilots on Board
The plane was being flown by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had logged over 8,200 hours of flying experience. The co-pilot had about 1,100 hours. Despite the crew’s experience, something went fatally wrong just after takeoff.
Rescue Efforts Mobilized Quickly
Emergency services, including fire brigades and disaster response teams, rushed to the site immediately. Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams with 90 personnel were deployed from Gandhinagar. Three more teams were mobilized from Vadodara to support search, rescue, and medical aid.
Officials Express Shock and Condolences
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her grief, calling it a “heart-rending disaster.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the crash had “stunned and saddened” the nation. He confirmed that he was in constant touch with Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu and other officials managing the rescue operation.
Technical Issues Before the Crash
Sources told News18 that the Dreamliner had been grounded in Ahmedabad for two days before the crash due to technical problems. This detail raises serious concerns about the aircraft’s airworthiness and maintenance.
About the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a long-haul aircraft first introduced in 2011. It’s praised for its fuel efficiency, advanced controls, and passenger comfort. The aircraft can travel 13,530 km and seats between 242 and 290 passengers. It also includes modern features like larger windows, better air quality, and improved humidity inside the cabin.
Air India added the model to its fleet in December 2012. Other major airlines like British Airways, Qatar Airways, and American Airlines also operate the same model.
Past Safety Concerns About Dreamliner
Despite its advanced features, the Dreamliner has faced repeated technical problems. Earlier this year, a similar aircraft with the tail number N819AN suffered multiple flight diversions due to hydraulic leaks and flap issues.
In 2023, Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour warned that the company had cut corners during the production of the 787 and 777 aircraft. He raised concerns that parts of the fuselage may not be properly joined, which could weaken the aircraft over time. He said, “I am doing this not because I want Boeing to fail, but because I want it to succeed and prevent crashes from happening.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched a probe into these allegations. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal later remarked, “Repeated, shocking allegations about Boeing’s manufacturing failings point to an appalling absence of safety culture…”
Following the crash, Boeing’s share prices dropped by 7.5% in pre-market trading.
Investigation Underway, Government Monitoring
Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu said he was personally overseeing the investigation. He confirmed that all aviation and emergency agencies were placed on high alert. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is working closely with airport officials, Air India, and rescue teams.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol added that the cause of the crash is still unknown and that a formal probe has been launched. However, he said it is “too early” to comment on any conclusions.
Air India Responds, Helpline Activated
Air India issued a statement: “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today… At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
Chairman N Chandrasekaran said, “With profound sorrow, I confirm… our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected.” The airline has set up a helpline at 1800 5691 444 for passenger families and inquiries.