Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani among dead, expert panel to examine incident

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced that a formal investigation into the Air India Flight AI-171 crash has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), following international norms laid out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). In addition to the AAIB-led probe, the government is also setting up a high-level committee comprising experts from various fields to conduct an in-depth analysis of the incident. The minister emphasised that the panel’s focus will be on strengthening aviation safety protocols and ensuring that such tragic incidents are prevented in the future.

The tragic crash of an Air India flight bound for London from Ahmedabad has taken a new turn, with a video surfacing that suggests technical malfunctions on the same aircraft just hours before the fatal incident. The aircraft, which operated as AI 423 from Delhi to Ahmedabad on the morning of June 12, departed the national capital at 10:07 am and landed in Ahmedabad at 11:40 am. During this leg of the journey, a passenger onboard, Aakash Vats, recorded and released a video highlighting malfunctioning air conditioning and other operational issues inside the cabin.

Read full story here.

Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg said, “Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad. I have spoken with Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran to offer our full support, and a Boeing team stands ready to support the investigation led by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.” Boeing will defer to India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to provide information about Air India Flight 171, in adherence with the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organisation protocol known as Annexure 13.

Boeing's 787 Dreamliners took to the skies 14 years ago and the Ahmedabad plane crash on Thursday afternoon is the first incident of the best-selling wide-body aircraft suffering a fatal accident. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft -- VT-ANB -- was 11.5 years old and had flown for more than 41,000 hours, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium. And the Boeing 787-8 that crashed on Thursday was among the 27 such legacy planes operated by Air India, which is also set to start the retrofit of these aircraft in the coming months. Air India and IndiGo are the two Indian airlines operating the B787 planes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Air India plane crash site in Ahmedabad on Friday (June 13). 

'This is one of the worst in aviation history': US President Donald Trump's 'anything we can do to help' offer after the Air India plane crash.

Ranjitha Gopakumar, a 39-year-old nurse from Kerala, was among the victims of a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday.
A mother of two, Ranjitha had returned to India from the UK just four days earlier to complete formalities related to her government job, hoping to rejoin service after a stint abroad. She had come home to Pullad, her native village in this south Kerala district, full of hope -- to finalise plans for a new house, and to move her children and elderly mother into a safer, more stable life. But what was meant to be a short trip filled with purpose and promise ended in heartbreak.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated that the intense blaze caused by the burning jet fuel in the Air India crash left little chance for the survival of passengers. "The temperature inside the aircraft rose to such an extreme level that the possibility of rescuing anyone was tragically minimal," he said while addressing the media. He further clarified that the final death toll can only be confirmed after the completion of DNA testing, which is currently underway to identify the victims. "Only after matching DNA samples from the families of the passengers can we confirm the total number of fatalities," Shah added.

In a solemn gesture of mourning and solidarity, the delegation of the European Union to India has lowered its flag to half-mast in memory of those who lost their lives in the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. Ambassador Herve Delphin, representing the EU Delegation, said, "As a mark of respect and in memory of all citizens who perished in the #AhmedabadPlaneCrash, the EU flag at our mission in India flies at half-mast today. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the families and loved ones of the victims."

Briefing the media after visiting the crash site, Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that Air India flight AI-171 crashed this afternoon, resulting in the tragic loss of several lives. "The entire country is in shock over this heart-wrenching incident," Shah said."“We stand in solidarity with the families of those who have lost their lives. Every possible support will be extended to them during this difficult time," Shah also assured that rescue and relief efforts are being carried out on priority and that the government is committed to ensuring all necessary assistance to the victims and their families.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited a hospital in Ahmedabad to meet those injured in the tragic Air India plane crash. During his visit, he interacted with the medical staff, reviewed the treatment being provided, and assured full support from the Central Government for the care and recovery of the victims. Shah also met families of the injured and offered his condolences and solidarity during this time of grief.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to brief the media soon at the Circuit House Annexe in Ahmedabad. Earlier, he visited the incident site and took stock of the situation. 

(Inputs from Nirnay Kapoor)

Air India stated that it has arranged two relief flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Ahmedabad for the family members of passengers and the crew members of the airline. "Family members of passengers and crew based in Delhi and Mumbai who wish to travel on these flights can call our hotline at 1800 5691 444," it stated. Additionally, those arriving from international destinations who wish to travel can contact our hotline at +91 8062779200, Air India added. 

A newly surfaced video has shed light on the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, capturing the horrifying moments just after take-off on Thursday. The footage, recorded by a security camera at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, shows flight AI-171 accelerating down the runway, lifting off, and then crashing shortly afterwards. The visuals depict the aircraft struggling in the air moments after departure before disappearing from view. Seconds later, thick plumes of black smoke are seen billowing from the crash site.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a statement on the Ahmedabad plane crash. He wrote, "I am saddened by the tragic accident of the Air India aircraft near Ahmedabad today. We extend our condolences to the families affected by this great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy."

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu visited the site of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad to assess the situation. Arriving amid ongoing rescue and relief efforts, the minister took stock of the damage, interacted with officials on the ground, and reviewed emergency response measures.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived at the site of the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad to personally review the situation and oversee ongoing rescue and relief operations. Shah interacted with local officials, emergency responders, and medical teams on the ground. 

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been confirmed among the 242 people who lost their lives in the tragic Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad. The ill-fated flight, bound for London, went down shortly after take-off, claiming the lives of 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

A lone survivor was found out of 242 passengers and crew on board the Air India flight that crashed near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, and more people are likely to be alive, said the Police Commissioner.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu arrives at the Air India plane crash site to take stock of the situation.

Relatives of the people affected due to the AI-171 plane crash wait for the details about the well-being of their loved ones, inside an auditorium at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.

Shah Rukh Khan said, "Absolutely heartbroken with the news about the crash in Ahmedabad… my prayers for the victims, their families and all affected."

Ahmedabad Police issues a list of 25 injured in plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Additional Chief Secretary of Gujarat Health Department says, "Ahmedabd Civil Hospital students' hostel, staff quarters and other residential areas are located in the area where the plane crashed. About 50 of those injured have been brought to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad."

In addition to the dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444, we have added another hotline number for foreign nationals +91 8062779200. Air India requests media persons not to call the dedicated passenger hotline number.

Dhananjay Dwivedi, Additional Chief Secretary, Gujarat Health and Family Welfare Department said, "...Ahmedabd Civil Hospital students' hostel, staff quarters and other residential areas are located in the area where the plane crashed. The residents of that area were also injured. About 50 injured people have been brought to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad. They are being provided the best treatment. They are serious but stable. DNA testing arrangements have been made at B.J. Medical, so families and close ones of the flight passengers, especially their parents and children, are requested to submit their samples at the location. So that the victims are identified at the earliest. If relatives of the passengers and other injured who have been brought to the Civil Hospital have to make any inquiry, Civil Hospital Ahmedabad has issued two helpline numbers - 6357373831 and 6357373841. You can contact these numbers for any help..."

Worried family members gather outside Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, anxiously seeking updates about their loved ones who were on the ill-fated Air India flight bound for London. The aircraft, carrying 242 passengers and crew members, was en route to London when the incident occurred. Multiple casualties are feared, though official confirmation is awaited. Rescue operations are underway, and officials are investigating the cause of the crash.

A DNA test will be conducted to identify the bodies.

Prime Minister of Singapore, Lawrence Wong tweets, "Deeply saddened by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad earlier today. The loss of so many lives is heartbreaking. We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the people of India in this time of sorrow."

King Charles III of the United Kingdom issues a message - "My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones. I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time."

Indian Army teams comprising approximately 130 personnel have been deployed to assist civil administration in the ongoing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts following the crash of an Air India flight near Ahmedabad. The Indian Army’s response includes engineering teams with JCBs for debris clearance, medical teams comprising doctors and paramedics, Quick Action Teams (QATs), fire-fighting assets with fire extinguishers and water bowsers, and provost staff for site management. The Military Hospital has also been placed on standby.

Visuals from the doctors' hostel where the London-bound Air India flight crashed. The tail fin of the aircraft seen on the premises.

All 242 passengers and crew on board Air India flight were killed, said Ahmedabad Police. 

We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders and all affected, said Boeing Airplanes.

All 242 passengers onboard Air India flight are likely to be killed, reports news agency AP.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "What has happened in Ahmedabad is a very tragic accident. We have lost a lot of people. We extend our deepest condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones. There are several foreigners. You will receive the updates from the relevant departments: Ministry of Civil Aviation, Air India, and others. That is the latest I can share. It is an evolving situation. The rescue operations are on. We need to wait a little more time for exact details to be put out..."

President of Russia Vladimir Putin sent a message of condolences to President of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Please accept the deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad. Kindly convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and near ones of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that Germany is following the shocking images of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad and praying for the people in India. In a post on X, Wadephul stated, "We are following the shocking images of an Air India flight crashing after departure in Ahmedabad. As we are only learning the details, my thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with our friends in #India and everyone currently hoping for their loved ones."

Visuals show people running away moments after the Air India flight AI-171 crashed after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport. The Boeing aircraft, which could be seen losing altitude quickly, crashed in Meghaninagar area near the Ahmedabad international airport.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said, "The unfortunate incident in Ahmedabad has left us confronting a devastating human tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. In this moment of grief, the nation stands united in solidarity with them."

 Air India flight from London to Goa cancelled. 

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is now operational with limited flights. Passengers are requested to connect with the airlines for updated information. Please follow our social media channels for updates, SVPIA Spokesperson.

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel reaches Ahmedabad's Asarwa Civil Hospital, where the plane crash injured have been brought.

Three teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are working at the plane crash site in Ahmedabad.

• London-bound Air India aircraft AI171 crashed shortly after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport on Thursday. 
• Six teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and two from the BSF have been sent to undertake rescue and relief operations at the crash site. 
• The disaster management team of the Western Railway is involved in relief and rescue operations at the site. 
• Civil Aviation Ministry set up a control room to oversee and coordinate all necessary response measures.

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the families of the passengers and the crew. The visuals are most heart-wrenching. The entire country is overtaken by grief and is praying, said Congress MP Sonia Gandhi.

A help desk and assistance area is being set up outside the now temporarily closed Ahmedabad airport for the relatives of passengers of the ill-fated London-bound Air India flight, which crashed soon after take off today.

President Droupadi Murmu said, "I am deeply distressed to learn about the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. It is a heart-rending disaster. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected people. The nation stands with them in this hour of indescribable grief."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer: "The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time."

Congress MP and LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said, "The Ahmedabad Air India crash is heartbreaking. The pain and anxiety the families of the passengers and crew must be feeling is unimaginable. My thoughts are with each one of them in this incredibly difficult moment.  Urgent rescue and relief efforts by the administration are critical - every life matters, every second counts.  Congress workers must do everything they can to help on the ground."

After a London-bound Air India aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, the spotlight is back on India's history with aviation disasters. From deadly mid-air collisions and fatal crashes due to poor weather conditions to runway overshoots at tabletop airports, the country has witnessed several tragedies over the decades. Here's a list of the most devastating air accidents in India's aviation history:

* Air India Express Flight 1344 (2020): During the COVID-19 pandemic, Air India Express Flight 1344, operating as part of the Vande Bharat repatriation mission, skidded off the runway while landing at the Kozhikode (Calicut) International Airport on August 7, 2020. Amid heavy rainfall, the aircraft overshot the wet tabletop runway, plunged into a valley and split into two. Of the 190 people on board, 21, including two pilots, lost their lives.

* Air India Express Flight 812 (2010): Air India Express Flight 812 overshot the runway while landing at the Mangaluru International Airport in Karnataka on May 22, 2010. The Boeing 737-800, coming from Dubai, plunged into a gorge beyond the tabletop runway and burst into flames, killing 158 people. The tragic incident brought increased scrutiny to India's tabletop airports and landing protocols during adverse conditions.

* Alliance Air Flight 7412 (2000): Alliance Air Flight 7412 crashed into a densely populated residential area in Bihar's Patna while attempting to land on July 17, 2000. The Boeing 737-200 experienced a stall at low altitude due to the reported improper handling during the final approach. Sixty people were killed, including five on the ground. The accident prompted upgrades to approach procedures at smaller urban airports.

* Charkhi Dadri mid-air collision (1996): On November 12, 1996, 349 people were killed in what became India's most devastating aviation disaster. The tragedy occurred when Saudia Flight 763, a Boeing 747, and Kazakhstan Airlines Flight 1907, an Ilyushin Il-76, collided mid-air near Charkhi Dadri in Haryana. The accident was the result of a communication failure and the Kazakh crew descending below their assigned altitude. Following the incident, India introduced significant aviation safety measures, including mandating the installation of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) on all commercial aircraft.

* Indian Airlines Flight 605 (1990): On February 14, 1990, Indian Airlines Flight 605 crashed while approaching Bengaluru's HAL Airport, killing 92 of the 146 people on board. The Airbus A320, a relatively new aircraft in India at the time, descended too low and hit the ground short of the runway, skidding onto a golf course. The investigation revealed that pilot error and unfamiliarity with the advanced digital cockpit of the A320 contributed to the tragic accident.

* Indian Airlines Flight 113 (1988): Amid poor visibility on October 19, 1988, Indian Airlines Flight 113, a Boeing 737-200, crashed on its approach to Ahmedabad Airport. The flight, arriving from Mumbai, struck trees and crashed short of the runway, killing 133 of the 135 people on board. Investigators pointed to pilot error, inadequate weather information, and procedural lapses by air traffic control.

* Air India Flight 855 (1978): On January 1, 1978, Dubai-bound Air India Flight 855, a Boeing 747, plunged into the Arabian Sea shortly after taking off from Mumbai, killing all 213 people on board. The disaster occurred only 101 seconds into the flight when a faulty Attitude Director Indicator led the captain to misinterpret the aircraft's orientation. The crash took place in nighttime conditions over the sea, contributing to the crew's spatial disorientation.

* Indian Airlines Flight 440 (1973): On May 31, 1973, Indian Airlines Flight 440 crashed during its approach to Delhi's Palam Airport. The Boeing 737-200 encountered severe weather and struck high-tension wires just short of the runway. Of the 65 people on board, 48 died. Among the dead was prominent Indian politician Mohan Kumaramangalam. The crash underscored the need for improved weather radar at Indian airports.

Ahmedabad City Police issues emergency number 07925620359 for police emergency services and information regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash.

A row of ambulances arrives at the Civil Hospital following the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.

We are aware of a plane crash in Ahmedabad. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support to those involved. British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000, says UK Government.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is en route to Ahmedabad following the Air India plane crash.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath said, "A tragic accident has occurred in Ahmedabad. A plane has crashed. It was on its way to London. A lot of passengers have lost their lives. I pray for the safety of the passengers... My condolences to the bereaved families..."

Multiple agencies are involved in rescue and relief operations at the Air India plane crash site in Ahmedabad. Debris with smoke emanating lies spread across the site.

Karnataka Dy CM DK Shivakumar said, "It is very shocking news. Air India was doing very well. The aviation industry was working in a systematic way nowadays. But to hear this in India, we are all surprised. May God give hope... We pray to God that all of them are safe..."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "Deeply anguished by the news of tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the passengers and the crew."

In light of the AI171 crash, an Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry of Civil Aviation to coordinate all details.

Contact: 011-24610843 and 9650391859.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday called the Air India plane crash as "very unfortunate" incident and prayed for the safety of passengers onboard the flight. In a social media post on 'X', Siddaramaiah said, "Deeply shocked to learn that an Air India flight with over 200 passengers has met with an accident in Ahmedabad, Gujarat." "This is a deeply distressing development. Praying for everyone's safety and hoping that all those affected receive timely help and care," he said.

Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner enroute from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Visuals from the crash site depict a harrowing scene with debris scattered across the area.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground," posts Adani Group Chairperson Gautam Adani.

Ahmedabad plane crash: Here's what an eyewitness said: "I was at home when we heard a massive sound. When we went out to see what had happened, there was a layer of thick smoke in the air. When we came here, dead bodies and debris from the crashed aircraft were scattered all over."

Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Efforts are underway to bring the fire under control.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah: "Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed to the crash site. Spoke with the Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police, Ahmedabad to assess the situation."

Ahmedabad plane crash: Ill-fated Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick (the UK) had 169 Indians, 53 British, and 1 Canadian national onboard, says Air India.

Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals. We have also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information. Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat: A senior police officer said, "As per preliminary information, a London-bound Air India flight has crashed at the doctors' hostel. Within 2-3 minutes, police and other agencies reached the spot. Almost 70-80 % of the area has been cleared. All agencies are working here..."

"Deeply anguished to learn about the disastrous crash of the Ahmedabad- London Air India flight with hundreds of people onboard. My thoughts and prayers are with the families deeply affected in the tragic plane crash," said BJD President Naveen Patnaik.

"The news of Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is extremely sad and worrying. I pray to God for the well-being and safety of all the passengers and crew members in this unfortunate incident." posts Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma

Visuals show a part of the crashed Air India's AI-171 aircraft atop a building. 

The ambulance carrying the injured reaches the hospital in Ahmedabad. A London-bound Air India plane carrying 242 passengers and crew crashed moments after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon. Several casualties were feared.

"With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event. At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information," says N Chandrasekaran Chairman, Air India.

The Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), with the team leaving for Ahmedabad for investigation, as per the Ministry of Civil Aviation sources.

PM Modi spoke to HM Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. He has asked them to go to Ahmedabad and ensure all possible assistance is extended to those affected in the wake of the air mishap, as per the sources.

Air India plane crash: What we know so far

• Air India plane crash: PM Modi speaks to Minister Rammohan Naidu, takes stock of flight crash 
• VIDEO: Air india plane crash in Ahmedabad, the final moments of the tragedy
• Air India plane crash: London-bound flight with 242 onboard crashes in Ahmedabad | What we know so far
• Air India Flight AI 171 crashes near Ahmedabad airport: All you need to know about Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
• First visuals of Air India plane crash site in Ahmedabad
• Air India Ahmedabad-London flight crashes, know all about Meghani Nagar area where the tragedy happened
• Air India Plane Crash: Airline stocks tumble after London-bound plane crashes near airport
• Ahmedabad: Air India plane crashes near Meghaninagar, thick smoke seen emanating from airport premises
   

Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani was on the Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Rammohan Naidu, and took stock of the Air India flight crash incident in Ahmedabad. The Minister informed the Prime Minister that he is rushing to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief operations on the ground. The Prime Minister has directed the Minister to ensure all necessary support is extended immediately and asked to be kept regularly updated on the situation. All relevant agencies are on high alert, and coordinated efforts are underway, as per the Office of Rammohan Naidu.

A video from near the crash site captured the final moments of the Air India flight before it crashed.

Relief and rescue efforts are underway at the site of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel said, "I am deeply saddened by the incident of the Air India passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad. I have instructed the officials to carry out immediate rescue and relief work and arrange for immediate treatment of the injured passengers on a war footing. I have also instructed to arrange for a green corridor to take the injured passengers for treatment and to ensure all arrangements for treatment in the hospital on priority basis. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also spoken to me and assured full cooperation..."

"Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport. As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport. We request your cooperation and patience as authorities manage this evolving situation. Further updates will be provided as soon as available," SVPIA Spokesperson.

Debris at Air India plane crash site in Ahmedabad; Fire Services and other agencies present at the site. Air India B787 Aircraft VT-ANB, while operating flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, has crashed immediately after takeoff from Ahmedabad. There were 242 people on board the aircraft, consisting of 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said, "Extremely shocked and saddened by the news of the flight crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families."

According to DGCA,

• Aircraft: Boeing787, Registration VT-ANB
• Operator: Air India
• Flight Number: AI-171 (Ahmedabad to Gatwick)
• Date:12 June 2025
• Location: Crashed immediately after takeoff from Runway 23, Ahmedabad

Onboard Details

• Total persons on board: 242
• Pilots: 2
• Cabin crew: 10
• Passengers: 230
• Captain: Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal (LTC, 8,200 hrs experience)
• First Officer: Clive Kundar (1,100 hrs experience)

Timeline of Events

• Departure: 13:39 IST (08:09 UTC) from Ahmedabad Runway 23
• Mayday Call: Issued shortly after takeoff
• Crash Site: Outside airport perimeter, immediately after departure
• ATC Communication: No response post Mayday
• Visuals: Thick black smoke observed at the crash location

Preliminary Status

• No confirmed cause yet
• Investigation initiated
• Rescue and recovery operations are underway

The plane crashed soon after taking off from Ahmedabad International Airport around 2 pm, police said.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said, "Stunned and profoundly shocked to know of the most tragic Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad today. It is a most sad news for all of us and I convey my condolences to victim families, even while we anxiously wait for survivors details and pray for survival of all. The crash during take-off of the London-bound plane has shaken and saddened me at my core. While we do not know exact figures, media reports indicate that there were 242 passengers in the plane. I am praying to God at this moment."

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said he is shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. He further said that he is personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.  

"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. 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," he said in an X post.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in a statement said, "Capt Sumeet Sabharwal is an LTC with 8200 hours of experience. The copilot had 1100 hours of flying experience. As per ATC, the aircraft departed from Ahmadabad at 1339 IST (0809 UTC) from runway 23. It gave a MAYDAY Call to ATC, but thereafter, no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC. Aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on the ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site."

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu is leaving for Ahmedabad from Vijayawada.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma in an X post said, "Deeply concerned by reports of an Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad. Praying for the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew members."

Smoke was seen emanating from the site of the Air India plane crash in Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, comprising 90 personnel, have been moved from Gandhinagar to the plane crash site. A total of three more teams are being moved from Vadodara, as per the NDRF.

"We are following reports of a crash of Air India flight #AI171 from Ahmedabad to London. We received the last signal from the aircraft at 08:08:51 UTC, just seconds after take off.  The aircraft involved is a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with registration VT-ANB", according to Flightradar24.

"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 on http://airindia.com and on our X handle," the Air India said in an X post.

Here's the Ahmedabad Airport Emergency Contact Number: 079-22869211. This number connects you to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI), Ahmedabad for emergency or urgent assistance.

The Gujrat Airspace has been closed after the incident.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to the Gujarat Chief Minister, Home Minister and the Police Commissioner regarding the plane crash. He also assured to provide Central government assistance.

AIC171 Ahmedabad to London Boeing 787-800 Dreamliner right after takeoff last reported altitude of 625 feet and speed of 174 knots, and climbing speed 896 feet per minute, crashed inside the airport near the boundary wall. As per reports ,there were 242 persons on board.

As per the reports, a total of 242 passengers were onboard the flight that crashed at Ahmedabad airport. 

The plane caught fire after crashing and fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the blaze. A large plume of black smoke was seen rising from the locality soon after the crash. Emergency responders reached the site promptly and have launched intensive rescue, evacuation, and firefighting operations.

An Air India flight crashed in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon, police said.