Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight Crashes After Takeoff; 241 Dead, One Survivor

Air India Flight AI171 Crash: A major aviation tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad as an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 of the 242 people on board.

Flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, went down minutes after departing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The aircraft crashed into a residential area near BJ Medical College, erupting in flames and prompting an immediate emergency response across the city.

The flight had 230 passengers, 10 cabin crew members, and two pilots.

Officials confirmed that only one passenger, a British national of Indian origin seated in 11A, survived and is currently being treated in a local hospital.

The accident occurred at 1:38 PM IST on Thursday. The aircraft reportedly lost control shortly after takeoff before plunging into the densely populated neighbourhood.

Air India’s statement

Taking to X, Air India posted, “Air India confirms that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on 12 June 2025, was involved in an accident. The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew. The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off. We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital.

The airline also shared the passenger nationality details: 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

“Air India offers its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of all those affected, their families and loved ones. A team of caregivers from Air India is now in Ahmedabad to provide additional support,” the post further read.

Air India has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation and has set up dedicated helpline numbers for families seeking information.

Domestic callers can dial 1800 5691 444, while international callers can reach +91 8062779200.

The airline will continue to provide regular updates through its official website and social media platforms.

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