Air India Flight AI171 Crash: Nation Grieves as Tragedy Claims 241 Lives
On June 12, 2025, a devastating aviation disaster unfolded near Ahmedabad, India, when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
Bound for London Gatwick, the aircraft was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Tragically, 241 lives were lost, leaving the country in mourning and communities shattered by grief.
Catastrophic Failure Moments After Takeoff
Trouble struck just minutes after departure. The aircraft, under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an experienced aviator with over 8,200 flight hours, along with Co-pilot Clive Kundar, began to lose altitude. In a final, urgent transmission to air traffic control, Captain Sabharwal reported, “Mayday… we can’t climb—no thrust, we’re losing power.”
The jet crashed approximately 1.5 miles from the runway, directly into a residential neighborhood. The impact resulted in a massive explosion, engulfing the aircraft and nearby homes in flames. Thick black smoke blanketed the sky as emergency teams rushed to the wreckage.
Massive Loss of Life and a Lone Survivor
Rescue workers faced overwhelming fire and destruction. Of the 242 people aboard, only one survivor was found—a British citizen of Indian origin, who remains in critical condition. Despite the brave efforts of first responders, hopes of finding more survivors faded quickly amid the chaos.
Across India, the emotional toll has been immense. Families are grappling with unimaginable loss. Air India released a statement mourning the victims and pledged full cooperation with investigative teams.
The Aircraft and the Investigation
The Dreamliner involved in the tragedy was 12 years old and had a history of dependable service on long-haul international routes. This accident marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787, casting a spotlight on aircraft performance and maintenance procedures.
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a full investigation, with support from Boeing engineers. Early indicators suggest the aircraft’s heavy fuel load—necessary for the long flight to London—may have intensified the fire and complicated rescue efforts.
Flight data recorders, wreckage analysis, and the crew’s final communications are being thoroughly reviewed to determine what led to the engine failure and loss of control.
Response and Relief Efforts
National agencies acted swiftly. Vande Bharat trains were dispatched to assist travelers stranded due to the airport shutdown. Local hospitals were placed on alert, and crisis counseling has been made available to affected families.
Air India pilot sent a call seconds before crash saying ‘Mayday, no thrust, losing power, unable to lift’ ℹ️ pic.twitter.com/04pO51c4Fo
— GENZY NEWS (@genzynews) June 12, 2025
The disaster also triggered a nationwide response of support, with leaders, celebrities, and everyday citizens offering condolences and help. Vigils were held in cities across the country.
A Tragic Day in Indian Aviation History
This incident is one of the deadliest air disasters in recent Indian aviation history. For a country that views air travel as a bridge to the global community, this crash has left a deep scar. It serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of human life and the unpredictable nature of modern air travel.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding what went wrong, learning from the tragedy, and ensuring such an event is never repeated. In the face of overwhelming loss, India has come together in sorrow, solidarity, and resilience.