AHMEDABAD, India — An Air India passenger aircraft bound for London’s Gatwick Airport crashed near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday, June 12, 2025, moments after take-off.
The flight, AI171, was reportedly carrying more than 200 passengers.
The airline confirmed the crash in a brief statement on social media platform X, saying:
“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.”
Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off.
The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are…
— Air India (@airindia) June 12, 2025
Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, also took to X to express his sadness over the incident.
The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025
While the statement did not confirm any casualties, visuals circulating online showed extensive wreckage engulfed in flames with thick black smoke rising near the airport perimeter.
According to data from flight-tracking website FlightRadar24, the aircraft departed Ahmedabad International Airport at 09:50 local time and lost signal at 10:08 a.m.
The plane had only reached an altitude of 625 feet, indicating the crash occurred less than a minute after take-off.
Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom also confirmed the flight’s intended arrival.
“We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25,” the airport said in a statement.
India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, said emergency protocols had been activated and all available resources were being deployed.
“We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action,” Naidu said in a statement.
“Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
