An Air India Boeing 787, carrying a total of 242 people, tragically crashed near Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff, sending shockwaves through India and the global aviation community. The pilot had issued a Mayday distress call moments before the accident, alerting Air Traffic Control (ATC) to a critical emergency onboard. Air India has officially confirmed the incident, and rescue and emergency operations are actively underway.
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Pilot Issues Mayday Call Moments Before Impact
Ahmedabad authorities reported that the ill-fated flight, AI171, was en route to London Gatwick when the catastrophe occurred on Thursday afternoon. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner had 230 passengers and 12 crew members onboard. Eyewitnesses near the Ghoda Camp area, close to Ahmedabad airport, saw the aircraft descend uncontrollably just minutes after its 1:10 PM departure, accompanied by thick smoke and a visible trail of flames.
The situation rapidly escalated into a full-scale emergency as airport officials and local rescue teams mobilized. Sources indicate that just before the crash, the pilot made a Mayday call to ATC, signaling that the aircraft was experiencing a serious technical issue. This communication underscores the suddenness of the crisis and the professionalism of the flight crew in attempting to manage an unimaginable emergency.
Air India Confirms Incident
In an official statement, Air India confirmed the tragic event: “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.” The airline emphasized that it is in constant contact with authorities and emergency response teams to ensure that all possible assistance is provided to those affected.
Chairman of Air India Expresses Deep Sorrow
Air India Chairman, N. Chandrasekaran, released a heartfelt statement expressing condolences to the families and friends of passengers and crew members: “With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India flight AI171 was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and loved ones of all those affected.”
He added, “Our focus now is on supporting the affected people, providing any assistance they may require, and working closely with emergency teams on the ground to facilitate rescue operations.”
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams, including firefighters, paramedics, and local authorities, rushed to the crash site, located between Meghaninagar and Ahmedabad Cantonment. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick smoke and flames rising from the area, prompting immediate evacuation of nearby zones for safety. Emergency personnel have been combing the site to locate survivors and assess the damage. Hospitals in Ahmedabad have been alerted and are on high alert to receive any injured passengers.
Authorities have yet to release official details regarding casualties or survivors, and the situation remains fluid as rescue efforts continue. Air India is coordinating with both local and national agencies to manage the crisis and provide timely updates to families and the public.
Investigation to Follow
Preliminary reports suggest that investigators will examine potential causes ranging from mechanical failure to environmental factors. Aviation authorities have dispatched teams to the crash site to recover black boxes and flight data recorders, which will be crucial in determining the sequence of events leading to the accident. Experts emphasize that such investigations can take weeks or months but are essential to ensure the safety of future flights.
Global Reactions
News of the crash has sparked immediate reactions from around the world. Governments, airlines, and aviation organizations have expressed condolences, highlighting the tragic nature of the event and offering support for rescue and recovery operations. Social media has been flooded with messages of concern and solidarity for the victims and their families.
The Human Impact
Beyond statistics and technical reports, the tragedy has a deeply human dimension. Passengers on the flight included families, business travelers, and tourists heading to London. The uncertainty surrounding their fate has left loved ones in anguish. Air India has urged families of passengers to contact its emergency helpline for information and assistance, while psychological support teams have been deployed to aid those affected.
Ongoing Coverage
This is a developing story, and authorities are expected to provide updates as rescue operations progress and more information becomes available. The aviation industry and public alike are awaiting details regarding the exact cause of the crash, the status of the passengers, and the safety measures being implemented in response.
Conclusion
The Air India flight AI171 crash near Ahmedabad is a tragic event that underscores the challenges and risks inherent in air travel. While rescue operations continue and investigations are launched, the thoughts of millions remain with the passengers, crew, and their families. The incident has left a mark on both the local community and the global aviation sector, reminding everyone of the importance of rapid emergency response and the human stories behind headlines.