TTU: An Air India plane crash occurred on Thursday near Ahmedabad Airport. The flight, headed to London, had 243 passengers onboard. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
Emergency teams rushed to the site immediately. A thick cloud of smoke was seen rising from the crash site. Visuals showed rescue teams helping passengers and taking the injured to nearby hospitals.
Air India Plane Crash: What Happened
The Air India flight AI171 took off from Ahmedabad and was on its way to London Gatwick. Reports say the plane crashed in the Meghani Nagar area, close to the airport boundary.
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, reportedly lost signal shortly after reaching an altitude of 625 feet. It was flying at around 174 knots before the crash.
Debris from the plane fell near the airport’s outer wall. Locals near the site said they heard a loud explosion. Videos filmed near the airport captured the final moments before the plane went down.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Firefighters, ambulances, and rescue workers reached the location quickly. The Indian Air Force and Army joined the efforts. Relief and rescue work is currently underway.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has sent a team to investigate the cause of the incident. Officials said they are treating the situation as a high-priority aviation emergency.
The Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu, posted on social media:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”
Naidu also confirmed that medical teams and emergency support are being sent without delay.
PM Modi Reacts to Air India Plane Crash
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Civil Aviation Minister to take stock of the situation. The Prime Minister has directed all agencies to provide full support. He also asked to be updated on rescue and relief work regularly.
A government spokesperson stated that all relevant departments are on high alert. Coordination between national and local agencies is ongoing.
Air India Issues First Official Statement
Air India released a brief statement:
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
Authorities are trying to confirm how many passengers were injured or killed. So far, the number of casualties has not been made public.
What We Know So Far
- The plane was en route from Ahmedabad to London.
- It was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.
- The crash happened shortly after takeoff.
- The location was Meghani Nagar, close to the airport boundary.
- 243 people were onboard.
- Former Gujarat Chief Minister was among the passengers.
- Rescue teams continue to search the area for survivors.
- The DGCA investigation is in progress.
- Relief and medical support is being provided on-site.
The Air India plane crash has raised serious questions about flight safety and emergency preparedness. More updates will follow as authorities share confirmed information.
