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✈️ Air India London Flight AI-171 Crashes During Takeoff in Ahmedabad: Multiple Deaths Confirmed
Date: June 11, 2025
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Byline: India News Desk
Keywords: Ahmedabad plane crash, Air India london flight crash, AI-171 accident, Air India London flight, plane crash June 2025
A major aviation tragedy struck India today as Air India London Flight AI-171, scheduled to fly from Ahmedabad to London, crashed during takeoff at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, which was carrying 133 passengers and crew, met with the accident at approximately 11:38 AM IST, leading to multiple fatalities and several injuries.
🚨 What Happened?
According to early reports from News18 and local officials, the aircraft failed to gain adequate lift during its acceleration on the runway and skidded off the tarmac, colliding with the perimeter fence and coming to a halt in a grassy area adjacent to the main runway.
Eyewitnesses at the airport reported hearing a loud metallic crash, followed by flames emerging from the left engine. Passengers and crew were evacuated using emergency slides, and rescue operations began within minutes of the crash.
📍 Aircraft & Route Details
- Flight No.: AI-171
- Route: Ahmedabad (AMD) to London Heathrow (LHR)
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
- Passengers Onboard: 125
- Crew Members: 8
The aircraft was reportedly cleared for takeoff on Runway 23 but experienced technical failure in the left engine, leading to partial lift and a runway overshoot.
🧑🚒 Emergency Response
Rescue teams, including airport fire crews, NDRF personnel, and local law enforcement, were deployed instantly. Several injured passengers were taken to Civil Hospital Ahmedabad and Apollo Hospital for treatment.
As of the latest official statement:
- 8 deaths have been confirmed (including 1 crew member)
- Dozens injured, 10 of them in critical condition
- All others evacuated, with many treated for minor injuries and trauma
🛫 Air India’s Statement
Air India confirmed the incident via a press release:
“Air India London Flight AI-171” operating from Ahmedabad to London encountered a serious technical issue during takeoff. Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of passengers and crew. Families are being notified, and assistance is being provided.”
The airline has activated emergency response protocols and is coordinating with DGCA and local authorities to begin a formal investigation.
🧾 DGCA and Investigation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun a full-scale probe into the incident. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been directed to recover the flight data recorder (black box) and cockpit voice recorder.
Initial suspicion points to engine failure, though officials have not ruled out other factors such as bird strike, pilot error, or mechanical malfunction.
🧑💻 Reactions & Passenger Accounts
Passengers onboard the flight described the scene as “terrifying” and “chaotic.” One survivor told News18:
“We felt a sudden jolt. The plane shook violently and then stopped. Smoke started filling the cabin, and the staff quickly opened the exits. It was pure panic.”
Social media has been flooded with messages of concern, with hashtags like #AirIndiaCrash and #AI171 trending nationally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, tweeting:
“Deeply pained by the loss of lives in the Ahmedabad air crash. Prayers with the families. Government is closely monitoring rescue and medical support efforts.”
📞 Helpline Numbers Issued
Air India has shared helpline numbers for concerned family members:
- Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-180-1407
- Ahmedabad Airport Emergency Desk: 079-2286-5211
🔚 Final Note
This tragedy has raised fresh concerns about aircraft maintenance, pilot readiness, and airport infrastructure safety in India. With aviation activity increasing post-COVID, the DGCA is under pressure to ensure stricter oversight and transparency in ongoing investigations.
As of now, operations at Ahmedabad Airport remain partially suspended, with all AI flights temporarily grounded until further notice.