On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 people, crashed in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff en route to London Gatwick. Captain Sumeet Sabharwal issued a desperate “Mayday” call moments before all contact was lost. The plane crashed into the Meghani Nagar neighborhood, causing massive destruction and igniting a fierce fire.
Emergency teams responded quickly, but tragically, there were no survivors. The crash also caused casualties on the ground, including medical college students. The aircraft had just begun a rapid ascent before disappearing from radar.
This incident marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a widely used aircraft since 2009. Indian and British leaders expressed deep sorrow, reflecting the strong ties between the two nations. Investigations are underway to understand the cause, while emergency support continues for the victims’ families.
This tragedy comes after previous aviation disasters in India and just before the Paris Air Show, adding pressure on the aviation industry to review safety and operations. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all affected by this devastating loss.