In a catastrophic aviation disaster, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 people crashed into a residential complex near BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad’s Meghaninagar area on June 12. The London-bound flight, AI171, plunged into the staff quarters just minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, prompting a national emergency response and a probe by aviation authorities.
Crash and Immediate Aftermath
Flight AI171 departed from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST. Air Traffic Control confirmed that the aircraft issued a Mayday call shortly after takeoff, but lost contact before any assistance could be provided. Eyewitness footage showed flames engulfing the site as thick black smoke billowed over the residential area. The aircraft exploded on impact, igniting surrounding buildings and vehicles in the densely populated doctor’s quarters of a government medical college.
Onboard and Ground Casualties
Air India confirmed that 242 individuals were on board, including:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British citizens
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian citizen
There are no confirmed survivors from the aircraft. Casualties and injuries on the ground are still being assessed, with victims being rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency care.
Eyewitness Accounts of Destruction
Local residents recounted the horror, stating the aircraft appeared to be descending unusually low before it crashed. “We heard a massive boom and then saw flames and smoke everywhere,” said a witness. Multiple vehicles were set ablaze, and fires spread through several residential buildings. Many residents were injured and displaced.
Experienced Flight Crew
The flight was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a senior Line Training Captain with over 8,200 hours of flight experience, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours. The plane reportedly crashed just beyond the airport perimeter.
Emergency Response by State and Centre
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited Asarwa Civil Hospital and led on-ground emergency operations. “Immediate rescue and relief operations have been initiated. Green corridors have been set up for medical emergencies,” Patel said on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow, calling the incident “heartbreaking beyond words.” He confirmed active coordination with ministers and authorities. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has arrived in Gujarat to oversee operations and ensure full central support through NDRF and emergency agencies.
Official Reactions
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have lost a lot of people. Very tragic accident. We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones.”
Investigation Initiated
Both the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have begun inquiries into the cause of the crash. Initial assessments will focus on the aircraft’s sudden descent, the issued Mayday call, and potential technical failures.
The crash of Air India’s Dreamliner AI171 marks one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in recent memory. With the loss of all 242 on board and numerous casualties on the ground, the nation stands in mourning. A full investigation is now underway as authorities work to uncover the cause and ensure accountability.
