London-bound Air India Flight With 242 Passengers Crashes After Take-off
An Air India flight en route to London Gatwick has crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing a yet-to-be determined number of passengers and crew.
Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Ahmedabad Airport at approximately 1:00pm local time.
According to Indian aviation authorities, the aircraft crashed minutes later into the Meghani Nagar residential area, not far from the airport perimeter.
“There were at least 242 people on board,” said local police, adding that emergency response operations were ongoing.
Director General of the Directorate of Civil Aviation, Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, confirmed the crash to the Associated Press (AP), describing it as a “severe incident.”
Flight tracking website Flightradar24 showed that the plane had climbed to 625 feet before its signal was lost shortly after takeoff.
Eyewitness footage from the scene shows thick plumes of flames and black smoke rising above the city skyline, as emergency services raced to the site.
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated that the aircraft went down just outside the airport boundary.
Air Indian confirmed the incident in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. We are currently ascertaining the details and will provide updates through our official channels.”
The flight was scheduled to arrive at London Gatwick at 6:25 pm UK time, the airport has confirmed.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, expressed his shock over the tragedy.
“I am shocked and devastated by the news of the Air India crash. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” Kinjarapu stated.
