LIVE | Air India Crash: Boeing 787 Dreamliners Under Scanner After Worst Indian Air Disaster in 50 Years

An  Air India Flight AI 171 carrying 242 passengers, bound for London, crashed during takeoff at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The aircraft reportedly went down in the Meghaninagar IGP Complex area of Ahmedabad, according to the Gujarat State Police Control Room. Rescue operations are underway, and authorities have yet to confirm details regarding casualties and the cause of the crash.

Jun 14, 2025 19:54 IST
After Gujarat Plane Crash, Centre Announces Multi-Agency Probe, Calls for Patience
In the wake of India’s worst aviation disaster in decades, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday addressed a press conference in New Delhi, detailing the government’s response to the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash and outlining urgent reforms to enhance aviation safety across the country.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, joined by Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, MoCA Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, and other top officials, spoke at Udaan Bhawan where the session began with a moment of silence for the 242 lives lost in the crash, including young medical students in Ahmedabad. Read More...



Jun 14, 2025 09:34 IST
Death Toll in Ahmedabad Plane Crash Rises to 274, Officials Say
At least 274 people lost their lives in one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters earlier this week, when a London-bound Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, according to sources on Saturday.
The fatalities, sources said, include both passengers and crew members aboard AI 171, as well as local residents on the ground.
The aircraft was carrying 242 people, 230 passengers, two pilots, and 10 crew members, when it crashed into a medical college just seconds after taking off from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick on Thursday. Of those on board, only one person survived: a British national of Indian origin. Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.. Read More



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Jun 13, 2025 21:12 IST
Singapore Airlines Shares Dip After Air India Crash Triggers Safety Crackdown
Shares of Singapore Airlines (SIA) took a hit on Friday, plunging 1.28% on the Singapore Exchange, following the deadly Air India crash in Ahmedabad that left 241 dead.
The flag carrier of Singapore, which owns a 25.1% stake in Air India, saw its stock fall to SGD 6.94, as shockwaves from the Boeing 787 Dreamliner disaster rattled investor confidence and triggered a sharp regulatory response.
On Thursday afternoon, an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport. Out of the 242 people onboard, only one person survived, marking one of India’s worst aviation tragedies in decades.
In the aftermath, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched an immediate safety review of Air India's entire fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners equipped with GEnx engines. The aviation watchdog has now ordered enhanced inspections, including in-depth checks of aircraft systems and a review of critical take-off data.
The Tata Group-owned airline has been directed to implement additional maintenance protocols on both its 787-8 and 787-9 variants — a move aimed at preventing any further incidents involving the long-haul wide-body aircraft.
As investigations continue, the market’s response highlights the growing scrutiny on Air India’s operations — and by extension, its global partners — amid rising demands for accountability and transparency in India's aviation sector.



Jun 13, 2025 20:50 IST
Ahmedabad Crash Tragedy: Grief & Unanswered Questions
A day after the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI171, the aftermath unfolds in gut-wrenching scenes across Ahmedabad. This is a glimpse into the events on ground — a window into the grief, chaos, and courage witnessed at Civil Hospital and BJ Medical College, where the human toll of India’s second-deadliest aviation tragedy is playing out.
The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. So far, 241 lives have been confirmed lost. Read More...



Jun 13, 2025 20:31 IST
Ramesh Vishwaskumar Not Alone: Other Miraculous Lone Plane Crash Survivors
In a tragedy that has stunned the nation, 241 people were confirmed dead after an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday. The flight, en route to London Gatwick, went down in a densely populated area near the BJ Medical College hostel. In a near-impossible twist of fate, one passenger, identified as Ramesh Vishwaskumar Bucharvada, aged 38, survived the crash and is currently receiving treatment at Civil Hospital in Asarwa, Ahmedabad. Read more



Jun 13, 2025 19:09 IST
“It All Happened Right Before My Eyes”: Ramesh Kumar Recalls Narrow Escape from Ahmedabad Plane Crash
“I still can’t believe I survived… it all happened right in front of my eyes,” said Ramesh Vishwaskumar Bucharvada, one of the fortunate survivors of the Ahmedabad plane crash. Visibly shaken, Kumar recounted the heart-stopping moments of the tragedy, describing scenes that he says will haunt him forever.
 
Watch Video: 
 
 



Jun 13, 2025 19:07 IST
After Ahmedabad Plane Crash, BJ Medical College Students, Doctors, and Staff Head Home
In the aftermath of the horrific plane crash in Ahmedabad, many students, professors, doctors, and staff of BJ Medical College have started returning to their homes from the hostel. The tragedy, which struck alarmingly close to the college premises, has left the campus community deeply shaken.
 
Watch Video: 
 



Jun 13, 2025 19:03 IST
Assam Doctor Narrowly Escapes AI171 Crash, Recounts Horror to Mother Over Phone
In a miraculous escape, Dr. Bidyut Gogoi from Assam's Sivasagar survived the devastating Air India Flight AI-171 crash. Speaking to his mother over the phone shortly after the incident, Dr. Gogoi gave a chilling account of the moments leading up to and following the crash.
He reportedly rushed out of his room after hearing a deafening explosion. The terrifying scene that unfolded left him shaken, a horror he later conveyed to his mother, who could only imagine the trauma through her son's trembling voice.
 
Watch Video Here: 
 



Jun 13, 2025 19:00 IST
Air India to Maintain Full Transparency on AI171 Crash: Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran
Air India and Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran on Friday assured that the airline will uphold complete transparency in all communication regarding the tragic crash of Flight AI171, which claimed 241 lives and left only one survivor.
“We will be transparent in our communication on the plane crash,” Chandrasekaran said, adding that Air India is fully cooperating with investigators and regulatory authorities.
The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner went down shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday, crashing into a medical college complex. A formal investigation has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which has recovered the Digital Flight Data Recorder from a rooftop near the crash site.
The Tata Group has deployed dedicated support teams to assist bereaved families, coordinate with local authorities, and help facilitate DNA identification processes currently underway in the city.



Jun 13, 2025 18:59 IST
DGCA Orders Enhanced Safety Checks on Air India’s Boeing 787 Fleet
In the wake of recent concerns surrounding aircraft safety, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed Air India to carry out enhanced safety inspections on its Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 fleet.
The aviation regulator’s move comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the continued airworthiness and operational safety of the Dreamliner aircraft operated by the national carrier. Sources within the DGCA stated that the intensified inspections will cover critical systems and components, with a special focus on structural integrity, engine performance, and onboard safety equipment.

 



Jun 13, 2025 12:56 IST
Bodies to Be Sent Home After DNA ID, Says Anand MP
Anand BJP MP Mitesh Patel has confirmed that the Gujarat government is making arrangements to transport the bodies of crash victims to their native villages once DNA identification is complete.
He also revealed that 33 passengers on board the ill-fated flight were from Anand district.



Jun 13, 2025 12:06 IST
“Nation Stands with the Bereaved Families,” Says Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed deep sorrow over the Air India Flight AI171 tragedy, saying, “In this hour of grief, the entire nation stands with the families of those who lost their lives.”
He extended wishes for the swift recovery of the injured and added, “This heartbreaking incident has caused pain not only in India but in many countries across the world. We pay our heartfelt tributes to the deceased.”



Jun 13, 2025 11:13 IST
“Pain Unimaginable, Void Irreplaceable”: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound grief over the Ahmedabad plane tragedy, calling it a “heartbreaking loss.”
“We are all devastated. The pain of the bereaved families is unimaginable, and the void left behind will be felt for years,” he said in a statement. “Om Shanti.”



Jun 13, 2025 10:33 IST
What Is a Black Box?
As investigators continue efforts to retrieve both black boxes from the crashed Air India flight in Ahmedabad, here’s what you need to know:
Despite the name, black boxes are actually bright orange to make them easier to locate after a crash. Officially called “crash-survivable memory units,” they are built to withstand extreme conditions and preserve critical data.
There are typically two devices onboard: the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), which captures conversations and sounds from the flight deck, and the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), which logs technical flight information like speed, altitude, and engine performance. In some cases, a single unit may combine both functions.
These devices are standard on commercial aircraft and are key tools in aviation accident investigations. While they don’t assign blame, they help experts piece together what happened—and how similar tragedies can be avoided in the future. The locator beacons inside them are powered by batteries that generally last up to 30 days.



Jun 13, 2025 10:32 IST
One Black Box Recovered So Far – Reports
One of the two black boxes from the ill-fated Air India flight has been recovered from the crash site in Ahmedabad, according to reports. The discovery could provide crucial data for investigators probing the cause of the deadly crash. Recovery efforts are still underway to locate the second recorder.



Jun 13, 2025 10:19 IST
Wife of Former CM Vijay Rupani Reaches Gandhinagar Residence
Anjali Rupani, wife of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani—who tragically lost his life in the Air India AI-171 crash—has arrived at their Gandhinagar residence. Family members and close relatives from across the country are gathering to offer condolences in the wake of the devastating loss.



Jun 13, 2025 10:01 IST
British High Commission Officials Arrive at Ahmedabad Airport
Officials from the British High Commission have arrived at the domestic terminal of Ahmedabad airport following the Air India AI-171 crash. Their presence signals possible assistance for British nationals who may have been on board or coordination with Indian authorities regarding the ongoing investigation and response efforts.
#WATCH | #AirIndiaPlaneCrash | British High Commission officials arrive at domestic airport, Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/GOrha3BNvD
— ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2025
 
 



Jun 13, 2025 09:50 IST
PM Modi Leaves Hospital After Meeting Crash Survivors
Earlier, the Prime Minister visited the crash site near the Ahmedabad airport, where the aircraft went down shortly after take-off, killing 265 people. At the hospital, he interacted with survivors and medical staff, taking stock of the treatment and support being provided. The visit comes amid a nationwide outpouring of grief and calls for a full investigation into the disaster.



Jun 13, 2025 09:48 IST
PM Modi Meets Injured at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital After Reviewing Crash Site
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached Ahmedabad Civil Hospital to meet those injured in the devastating Air India crash. His visit comes shortly after he conducted an on-site assessment of the crash location. The Prime Minister is being briefed by medical staff and officials on the condition of the survivors, as the death toll continues to rise, now at 265. 



Jun 13, 2025 09:19 IST
PM Modi Reaches Air India Crash Site in Ahmedabad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at the site of the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 241 lives on Thursday. 
#WATCH | PM Modi arrives in Ahmedabad, in the wake of the deadly AI-171 flight crash that claimed the lives of 241 people, including 12 crew members, onboard pic.twitter.com/L8BuOQMljk
— ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2025



Jun 13, 2025 00:01 IST
Air India Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau Initiates Formal Probe
In the wake of the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has formally launched a full-scale investigation to determine the cause of the accident that claimed numerous lives on Thursday.
The tragic incident occurred shortly after the London-bound aircraft took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, crashing into a residential locality and triggering a massive blaze. The flight was carrying 232 passengers and 10 crew members, with only one confirmed survivor, according to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The AAIB, operating under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, confirmed on Thursday evening that it has initiated a comprehensive probe under Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines. A team of senior investigators has already reached the crash site to begin collecting crucial evidence, including black box data, flight records, and witness testimonies.
Following the tragic incident in Ahmedabad, a formal investigation has been initiated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in line with international protocols set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Additionally, the Government is…
— Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu (@RamMNK) June 12, 2025



Jun 12, 2025 23:42 IST
Air India Crash: 1.25 Lakh Litres of Fuel Caused Massive Fire, Says Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday expressed profound grief over the Air India Flight AI-171 crash that occurred in Ahmedabad earlier in the day. Addressing the media from the accident site, Shah said the entire country is deeply shocked and mourning the tragic loss of lives.
The London-bound Air India flight, carrying 232 passengers and 10 crew members, crashed into a densely populated residential area just minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, erupting into flames and causing widespread devastation.
“This afternoon, Air India flight AI-171 crashed and many passengers are feared dead. The entire nation is grieving and stands with the families who have lost their loved ones,” Shah stated.
Describing the intensity of the accident, Shah explained that the aircraft was loaded with approximately 1.25 lakh litres of aviation fuel, which contributed to the massive fire post-crash, reducing chances of survival to nearly zero. Read More..



Jun 12, 2025 23:32 IST
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Expresses Deep Grief Over Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed profound sorrow over the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, calling it an incident too painful for words.
In an emotional post on Facebook, CM Sarma wrote:
"I am deeply pained by the tragic plane crash that occurred today. Words fall short in expressing the grief caused by such a disaster. On behalf of the people of Assam, I pray to the Almighty for the eternal peace of each soul who lost their life prematurely."
The Chief Minister also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families:
"I express my deepest sympathies to every family who lost a loved one. I also pray that the Almighty gives you the strength to endure and overcome this unimaginably difficult time."
He assured the victims' families that the people of Assam stand united with them in grief:
"We stand in solidarity with every affected family during this harsh reality. I also wish for the swift recovery of those who have been injured."
The statement comes as leaders across India and the world continue to react to the deadly crash of Air India Flight 171, which was en route from Ahmedabad to London and crashed minutes after takeoff, claiming numerous lives, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani.



Jun 12, 2025 23:30 IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: US President Donald Trump Calls Incident 'One of the Worst in Aviation History'
Reacting to the devastating Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, U.S. President Donald Trump described the tragedy as “one of the worst in aviation history” and expressed willingness to offer support to India during this difficult time.
Speaking to the media, Trump said:
“The plane crash was terrible. I have already told them that if there’s anything we could do—we will be there immediately. It’s a big country, a strong country, and they will handle it, I’m sure. But it was a horrific crash.”
Trump, who expressed concern over the preliminary visuals of the accident, also speculated on a potential technical failure:
“Maybe there are a couple of survivors, but that was a horrible crash. Nobody has any idea what it might be. I gave a couple of pointers—you know, we saw the plane—it looked like it was flying pretty well. Just looked like the engines lost power.”
The president’s remarks come amid a global wave of condolences as international leaders and aviation safety authorities monitor the fallout from the crash, which claimed numerous lives, including that of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
Air India Flight 171: Global Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The London-bound Air India flight crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad, carrying 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by Indian aviation authorities, with assistance and attention from global aviation watchdogs.
As India continues its rescue, relief, and recovery operations, world leaders—including those from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada—have extended their support and condolences to the victims' families.



Jun 12, 2025 23:28 IST
BJP Mourns ‘Irreparable Loss’ After Vijay Rupani’s Death in Air India Crash
In a tragic turn of events, BJP leader and former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has been confirmed among the victims of the Air India Flight 171 crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday.
Rupani, who served as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat from August 2016 to September 2021, was on his way to London to visit his family when the ill-fated flight crashed just minutes after departure at 1:38 PM. The aircraft was carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers—comprising 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian—along with two pilots and 10 cabin crew members. Read More



Jun 12, 2025 22:41 IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: PM Narendra Modi to Visit Crash Site Tomorrow for Review
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Ahmedabad tomorrow following the tragic plane crash. Ground Zero reports by Pratidin Time reveal exclusive updates from the crash site. Stay tuned for live coverage, eyewitness accounts, and latest developments.



Jun 12, 2025 22:06 IST
Udaipur’s Dr. Komi Vyas, Her Husband and Three Children Among Victims of Tragic Incident
In a devastating tragedy, Air India Flight AI 171, carrying 242 passengers and bound for London, crashed during takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.
Among the victims was a family of five from Udaipur, Rajasthan. Dr. Komi Vyas, a well-known medical professional, was traveling with her husband and three children. She had recently resigned from her job to reunite with her husband in London and begin a new chapter with their children. The family was looking forward to settling abroad together.
A final photograph of Dr. Komi Vyas with her husband and children, taken just before boarding, has emerged as a heartbreaking reminder of the lives lost.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country, especially in Udaipur, where the family was well-known and loved.
 




Jun 12, 2025 22:01 IST
Air India Operating Special Relief Flights to Ahmedabad for Next of Kin
In response to the recent incident, Air India is operating two special relief flights — one each from Delhi and Mumbai — to Ahmedabad for the next of kin of passengers and Air India staff.
Flight Details:
• From Delhi to Ahmedabad:
  Flight No: IX1555
  Departure: 2300 hrs, 12 June

• Return Flight – Ahmedabad to Delhi:
  Flight No: IX1556
  Departure: 0110 hrs, 13 June

• From Mumbai to Ahmedabad:
  Flight No: AI1402
  Departure: 2300 hrs, 12 June

• Return Flight – Ahmedabad to Mumbai:
  Flight No: AI1409
  Departure: 0115 hrs, 13 June
Air India has requested the next of kin of passengers and staff based in Delhi and Mumbai who wish to travel to contact the airline through the dedicated hotline number: 1800 5691 444.
For those arriving from international destinations and seeking to join these relief efforts, Air India has also made available an international contact number: +91 8062779200.
These efforts are part of Air India’s commitment to provide immediate assistance and support during this time.



Jun 12, 2025 19:59 IST
Seat 11A: The Only Survivor of Air India Flight AI171
In what is being called one of the worst aviation disasters in recent Indian history, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a densely populated neighborhood in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff. While initial reports suggested that all 242 people on board had perished, authorities have now confirmed the miraculous survival of one passenger. Read More



Jun 12, 2025 18:38 IST
“I Was on That Plane”: Flyer Raises Alarm Before AI171 Crash
In a shocking revelation that could deepen scrutiny into Thursday’s Air India Flight AI171 crash, a passenger who flew on the same Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner just hours earlier has claimed the aircraft showed multiple technical malfunctions during his journey. Read More 



Jun 12, 2025 18:00 IST
Amit Shah Rushes to Ahmedabad Following Air India Flight AI171 Crash
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has boarded a special flight to Ahmedabad in the wake of the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from the city on Thursday afternoon.



Jun 12, 2025 16:49 IST
Air India Flight Crash: Manipur Woman Amongst Cabin Crew
A young woman from the Northeast, Nganthoi Sharma Kongbrailatpam, believed to be a native of Manipur, was among the cabin crew on board the ill-fated Air India Flight AI171 that crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday. Read More



Jun 12, 2025 16:22 IST
Civil Aviation Ministry Activates Control Room
In response to the Air India AI171 crash, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has activated an Operational Control Room to coordinate relief, rescue, and information efforts.
Helpline Numbers:
011-24610843
9650391859
MoCA stated:“We are committed to swift response and full support to all affected.”
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 | 9650391859

We are committed to swift response and full support to all affected.@RamMNK @mohol_murlidhar
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) June 12, 2025



Jun 12, 2025 15:57 IST
Assam CM Expresses Concern Over Air India Crash
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed deep concern over the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad.
“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,” he posted on X.
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. 🙏
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 12, 2025



Jun 12, 2025 15:51 IST
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reacts to Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad.
“Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad,” Shah said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
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 Shri Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police Ahmedabad to assess the…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 12, 2025
He confirmed that disaster response teams have been swiftly deployed to the crash site. Shah also held discussions with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner to assess the ongoing rescue and relief operations.



Jun 12, 2025 15:47 IST
 Air India Confirms Incident Involving Flight AI171
Air India has officially confirmed that Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident shortly after takeoff today. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner departed from Ahmedabad at 13:38 IST with a total of 242 individuals on board, including passengers and crew.

 
Nationality Breakdown of Occupants:
169 Indian nationals
53 British nationals
7 Portuguese nationals
1 Canadian national
All injured individuals are currently being transported to the nearest medical facilities for treatment.
Air India has activated a dedicated passenger helpline — 1800 5691 444 — to assist families and provide real-time information.



Jun 12, 2025 15:43 IST
DGCA Confirms Crash Details
A Boeing 787 Dreamliner (Reg: VT-ANB) crashed shortly after takeoff from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST. The aircraft, operated under the command of Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal, issued a "MAYDAY" call moments after departure but lost all communication before plummeting outside the airport perimeter.



Jun 12, 2025 15:30 IST
Mayday Ignored? Jet Goes Down After Emergency Call to ATC
The pilots issued a MAYDAY call to Air Traffic Control (ATC), but no further response was received from the aircraft. Visuals circulating on social media showed thick black smoke rising from the crash site.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight took off from Ahmedabad at 1:39 PM from runway 23.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanan Desai stated that authorities are in the process of gathering information about potential casualties. Firefighting teams were immediately dispatched to the scene, and several injured individuals have been taken to the city civil hospital for treatment.
What is MAYDAY? 
"MAYDAY" is the standard international distress call used in aviation and maritime emergencies. Originating from the French phrase venez m’aider (meaning "come help me"), it is repeated three times, “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday”—to signal a life-threatening situation. The call immediately alerts air traffic control or rescue authorities to dispatch urgent assistance. It is used when there is imminent danger to the aircraft or vessel, such as engine failure, fire, or serious medical emergencies.
Air Traffic Control: Guiding Flights, Ensuring Sky Safety
Air Traffic Control (ATC) is a crucial service responsible for managing the safe and orderly flow of aircraft both in the sky and on the ground. Operated by trained air traffic controllers, ATC coordinates takeoffs, landings, and in-flight movements to prevent collisions and ensure efficient air travel. Controllers use radar, radio communication, and advanced navigation systems to guide pilots, maintain safe distances between aircraft, and provide timely instructions, especially during emergencies.



Jun 12, 2025 15:18 IST
Former Gujarat Chief Minister was on board the plane that crashed!
Rescue operations are currently underway at the crash site, with the Indian Army leading efforts on the ground. Authorities have sealed all roads leading to the airport, and a green corridor has been established to ensure swift medical assistance for the injured. Gujarat Chief Minister has expressed condolences over the tragic incident.
Notably, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is also believed to have been on board the ill-fated flight.



Jun 12, 2025 15:13 IST
Flight AI171 Crashes; 2 Pilots, 10 Crew Among 242 Onboard
The DGCA confirmed that the aircraft was carrying 242 people, including two pilots and ten cabin crew members. It was being operated by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar as co-pilot.
"As per ATC, 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," the DGCA said.
Air India also confirmed that Flight AI171, operating on the Ahmedabad–London Gatwick route, was involved in an incident. "We are currently verifying the details," the airline stated in a post on X.