On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, carried 242 individuals—230 passengers and 12 crew members. The crash resulted in the deaths of 241 people on board and at least 28 fatalities on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent history.
The Crash and Immediate Aftermath
The aircraft lost stability approximately 30 seconds after takeoff, descending rapidly and crashing into a building housing the B.J. Medical College hostel in the Meghani Nagar area. The impact caused a massive fireball, engulfing the plane and the building. Remarkably, one passenger, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, survived the crash.Seated in row 11A near an emergency exit, Ramesh managed to escape the wreckage with burns and impact injuries. He described the experience as surreal, stating, "I saw people dying in front of my eyes."
Victims and International Impact
Among the deceased were 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian. The crash has had a profound impact internationally, particularly in the United Kingdom, where 53 citizens lost their lives. An urgent COBRA meeting was convened by UK authorities, and memorial services have been held in honor of the victims.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India, along with international agencies such as the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Initial findings indicate that the aircraft lost stability shortly after takeoff, but the exact cause remains under investigation. The Boeing 787-8 involved in this incident had been in service for over a decade and had no prior history of fatal accidents.
Government Response and Compensation
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah visited the crash site to oversee relief operations.The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed teams to assist in recovery efforts. The government announced compensation of ₹1 crore (approximately $120,000) for the families of each victim. Additionally, DNA testing was conducted to identify the victims, many of whom were charred beyond recognition.
Aviation Safety Reassessments
In the wake of the crash, the DGCA ordered enhanced safety inspections for all Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners in Air India's fleet. These inspections include checks on fuel parameters, cabin air compressors, engine control systems, hydraulic systems, and takeoff parameters. The airline has also been directed to conduct additional maintenance on its Boeing 787 fleet.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is a devastating tragedy that has affected families and communities worldwide. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of the crash and implementing measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, remains hospitalized, and his account of the events provides crucial insights into the final moments of the flight. The international community stands in solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time.
by Rohit Thakur | 13 jun 2025.
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