An Air India Ahmedabad-London flight, AI171, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, triggering a massive emergency response.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner went down in the Meghani area of the city, erupting into a fireball that sent thick black smoke billowing across the skyline.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft was carrying 242 individuals: 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew.

The plane was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar. Officials noted that the aircraft was heavily fueled for the long-haul international route, intensifying the explosion and subsequent blaze.

Multiple fire engines, ambulances, and emergency services were immediately dispatched to the crash site in Meghani. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed that three teams consisting of 90 personnel from Gandhinagar were deployed, with three more teams arriving from Vadodara.

Casualties unclear

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the number of casualties.

But local newspaper Indian Express, citing police, reported that all 242 people on board the Air India plane that crashed have died.

City police chief G.S. Malik told Reuters that at least 204 bodies were recovered from the crash site, noting that the bodies could include passengers and those who died on ground from the impact.

Preliminary speculation suggests the post-crash fire may have been worsened by the heavy fuel load required for the flight to London. However, the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.

DGCA, Boeing to investigate cause of Air India AI171 crash

The DGCA is expected to launch a formal investigation into the AI171 crash. A technical team from Boeing may also be involved to assist with the inquiry, though official details have yet to be confirmed. No definitive cause has been released at this stage.

In its initial statement, Air India said, “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details.”

Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran issued a formal note: “With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India flight AI171 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.”

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…

— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) June 12, 2025

Top Indian officials respond to Air India accident

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, state Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner shortly after the crash. Chief Minister Patel expressed deep sorrow and emphasized swift rescue and medical response.

In a statement posted on X, Patel said he had directed officials to ensure immediate treatment for the injured and the setup of a green corridor for rapid hospital transport. “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,” he wrote.

Patel added that Amit Shah had personally called to assure full cooperation from the Central government in managing the plane crash’s aftermath. “The Central government will provide all necessary assistance,” Patel confirmed.

Airport operations suspended following crash

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad has suspended all flight operations until further notice. In a statement, a spokesperson said, “Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport. As a result, the airport is currently not operational.”

Travelers have been advised to contact their respective airlines before heading to the airport. Updates will be issued as the situation evolves.