On June 12, 2025, India experienced one of the most catastrophic air disasters in its aviation history. Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London Gatwick, crashed moments after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. Of the 242 people on board, only one survived, making this not only India’s deadliest Dreamliner disaster but also one of the most tragic air crashes globally in recent years.
This detailed crash report covers the key facts, victim details, possible causes, investigation updates, and the broader implications for the aviation industry.
Overview of the Aircraft and Route
Air India Flight AI171 was operating a routine international long-haul flight from Ahmedabad, India, to London, United Kingdom. The aircraft was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, one of the most technologically advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft in service today. This model had built a strong safety record since its debut in 2011, making the crash all the more shocking.
The flight was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Among the passengers were families, students, foreign nationals, and high-profile individuals, including the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani.
Crash Timeline
1:38 PM IST – Departure from Ahmedabad Airport
The Boeing 787 took off smoothly from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The weather was clear, and all systems appeared to be functioning normally at the time of departure.
1:39 PM – Trouble During Ascent
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft reached approximately 625 feet in altitude. Eyewitnesses and flight data indicate that the aircraft suddenly stalled. There were reports of strange engine noises and heavy vibration. A distress (mayday) call was made by the pilot, but communication was lost moments later.
1:41 PM – Crash
The plane crashed into a section of the BJ Medical College campus in the Meghani Nagar area of Ahmedabad. It struck a student hostel building, causing an enormous explosion and fire that could be seen across the city. Several people on the ground also lost their lives.
Casualties and Survivor Story
Of the 242 people on board, 241 died instantly or succumbed to injuries shortly after the crash. The only survivor was Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 32-year-old British citizen seated in 11A. His miraculous survival has captured global attention. He was discovered in the wreckage, shielded by a portion of the aircraft’s fuselage that remained partially intact. Though seriously injured, he was conscious when found and is now recovering in a hospital under tight medical supervision.
The crash also caused the deaths of at least six medical students on the ground. Several buildings were damaged, and dozens of individuals were treated for burns and trauma.
Victim Demographics
The crash claimed the lives of passengers from multiple countries:
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169 Indian nationals
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53 British citizens
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7 Portuguese nationals
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1 Canadian citizen
Several families were traveling together, including young children and elderly passengers. The loss has left hundreds of families grieving across continents.
Eyewitness Testimonies
People in nearby buildings reported hearing a thunderous boom, followed by fire and black smoke. Some described seeing the plane descending sharply and tilting before impact. Medical students in the hostel had only seconds to react before part of their building collapsed.
Videos captured on CCTV and bystanders’ phones show the aircraft plunging unnaturally fast, sparking speculation about mechanical failure or loss of control.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
The response from local emergency teams was swift. Fire brigades, ambulances, police, and hospital teams were deployed within minutes. A green corridor was established to transport survivors and bodies to hospitals and morgues. The Indian Army was called in to assist with search-and-rescue and clearing debris.
Hospitals across Ahmedabad were put on emergency alert. Volunteers donated blood, provided food to victims’ families, and offered shelter to those displaced by the damage. Despite the rapid response, the intensity of the explosion left little hope for additional survivors.
Investigation: What Caused the Crash?
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India is leading the investigation, with cooperation from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Boeing, and the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch.
The black box flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were recovered and sent for detailed analysis.
Several initial theories are under review:
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Landing Gear Malfunction: The landing gear may have failed to retract properly, causing aerodynamic instability and drag.
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Engine Failure: Witnesses reported hearing odd noises and experiencing vibrations, suggesting a possible engine stall or shutdown.
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Bird Strike: Ahmedabad Airport is located in a region where bird activity is common. Investigators are not ruling out a bird strike during ascent.
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Software/System Glitch: As a highly automated aircraft, the Dreamliner depends on sophisticated flight systems. A software fault or autopilot error may be a contributing factor.
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Human Error: Though less likely at this stage, investigators will also assess the crew’s decisions and actions.
A preliminary report is expected within a few weeks, while a full investigation may take several months.
Air India and Tata Group’s Response
Air India, now owned by Tata Group, issued an official statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss. The airline has launched a dedicated helpline for families, set up assistance centers, and is offering financial compensation to the victims’ relatives.
The airline has grounded several aircraft from the same fleet for precautionary inspection and is conducting an internal safety review.
Tata Group chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran personally visited Ahmedabad to oversee relief efforts and vowed to support affected families long-term.
Government and Global Reactions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences and ordered a high-level review of civil aviation safety standards. A moment of silence was observed in the Indian Parliament, and leaders from the UK, Canada, and Portugal sent their sympathies and offered assistance.
Aviation safety authorities in multiple countries are watching the case closely, as it is the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its commercial debut.
Impact on Boeing and Global Aviation
This disaster has renewed scrutiny on Boeing, already under pressure from previous incidents involving its 737 Max line. Boeing’s stock fell nearly 5% following the crash, and investors are closely monitoring the investigation’s progress.
While the Dreamliner has maintained a strong safety record, the implications of a major fatal crash could lead to new safety checks, global airworthiness reviews, and stricter maintenance protocols.
Public Mourning and Tributes
Across India and in many international cities, candlelight vigils and public memorials have been held for the victims. Photos of the deceased have filled newspapers and social media, while families continue to demand answers and accountability.
The survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, has expressed grief over the loss of his fellow passengers and is cooperating with investigators when medically able.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is not just a tragic event—it’s a defining moment in India’s aviation history. With 241 lives lost and questions still unanswered, the nation and the world look to investigators for clarity and resolution.
While the only survivor offers a sliver of hope and resilience, the larger story is one of deep sorrow, mourning, and the urgent need for improvements in aviation safety. As we await the official report, one truth is already clear: this disaster must lead to change.
