A tragedy unfolded on June 12, 2025, near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, as Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner bound for London (Gatwick), crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was carrying approximately 230–242 passengers and 12 crew members. The crash occurred in the Meghani Nagar area around 14:00 IST, triggering a rapid emergency response.
Key Details of the Incident:
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Time & Location: Around 14:00 IST, shortly after takeoff near the airport’s perimeter in Meghani Nagar.
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Aircraft: Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, registration number VT‑ANB.
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Occupants: Estimated 230–242 passengers and 12 crew members (final count pending confirmation).
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Immediate Aftermath: Eyewitnesses reported seeing debris and thick black smoke. Multiple fire brigades, ambulances, and disaster response teams were deployed to the scene.
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Casualties: No official figures have been released yet. Updates from authorities are awaited.
Emergency Response:
Local emergency services, including fire brigades and disaster management teams, responded promptly to the crash site. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly coordinated with the Gujarat state government, assuring that all necessary support and assistance are being provided.
Investigation:
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced that a full investigation will be launched. Officials will examine whether the crash was caused by mechanical failure, human error, or other factors. Retrieval of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) will be crucial in understanding the sequence of events leading to the crash.
Broader Implications:
This is one of the most serious aviation incidents involving Air India in recent years. The findings of the DGCA’s investigation could influence not only Air India’s safety procedures but also broader aviation regulatory standards in India and internationally.
What Happens Next:
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Official statements from Air India and the DGCA are expected soon.
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Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing at the crash site.
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Aviation experts will analyze the incident, potentially recommending safety upgrades or procedural changes.
