Tragedy in the Skies: Air India Flight AI171 Crashes in Ahmedabad, 242 Onboard


Crash Summary: What Happened?

A tragic air disaster struck Gujarat’s capital city on Thursday as Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

According to Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft departed from Runway 23 at 13:39 IST (08:09 UTC). It issued a Mayday call, but soon after, lost communication with ATC. The aircraft reportedly crashed into a doctors' hostel in the Meghaninagar area, outside the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported heavy black smoke rising from the site of impact.

Passenger Details and Casualties

The flight included a mix of international nationals:

  • 169 Indian nationals

  • 53 British nationals

  • 7 Portuguese nationals

  • 1 Canadian national

Exact figures on fatalities and injuries have not yet been confirmed as rescue and relief operations are still ongoing. However, officials have confirmed multiple casualties, and injured passengers have been transported to nearby hospitals.

Pilot and Crew Information

The ill-fated aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 flying hours. He was assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours of flying experience.

Government and MEA Response

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), addressed the media and called the crash a “very tragic accident”. He confirmed the presence of foreign nationals on board and assured that the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Air India would release further updates.

“We extend our deepest condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones,” Jaiswal stated. He emphasized that rescue operations are ongoing and that multiple agencies of the Government of India are engaged in managing the crisis.

National Condolences

  • President Droupadi Murmu called the incident a “heart-rending disaster” and conveyed her prayers to the victims’ families.

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the crash as “heartbreaking beyond words” and stated he is closely monitoring the rescue efforts in touch with relevant authorities.

Global Leaders React

The tragedy has drawn international sorrow and solidarity:

  • French President Emmanuel Macron expressed deep emotion and extended thoughts to PM Modi and the victims.

  • Russian President Vladimir Putin sent official condolences to PM Modi and President Murmu.

  • Australian PM Anthony Albanese called the crash “absolutely devastating.”

  • Canadian PM Mark Carney confirmed that one Canadian was aboard and that Canadian transport officials are actively monitoring the situation.

  • Singapore’s PM Lawrence Wong expressed deep grief and extended support.

  • Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan offered his sympathies to the people of India.

  • Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said his prayers were with the families of the fallen.

Corporate & Civil Response

Air India, owned by the Tata Group, has issued multiple statements confirming the incident. The airline has set up a dedicated helpline: 1800 5691 444 to assist families of passengers. CEO Campbell Wilson expressed deep sorrow and affirmed the airline’s full cooperation with the investigation.

Tata Group’s Compensation and Relief Efforts

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, announced a compensation package of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased victim. The company will also:

  • Cover medical expenses of the injured

  • Offer logistical and emotional support to grieving families

  • Provide help for rebuilding the damaged B J Medical College hostel

“We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time,” Chandrasekaran said in a public statement.

Rescue and Investigation

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has deployed 150 personnel, including troops from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and units from Gandhinagar. Additionally, three teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) comprising 90 personnel are on-site.

Aircraft manufacturer Boeing issued a statement saying it is in contact with Air India and is ready to support the investigation.

Ongoing Developments

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities have refrained from speculative commentary. Rescue operations continue under the supervision of national disaster and aviation authorities.

Updates will be provided by:

  • Ministry of Civil Aviation

  • Air India

  • MEA


Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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