Aviation Desk
✈️ Devastating Air India Crash in Ahmedabad: At Least 265 Dead
An Air India international flight crashed in Ahmedabad, killing at least 265 people. On 12 June at 9:48 AM local time, Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft came down in the hostel complex of Gujarat’s renowned B. J. Medical College. The tragic incident caused the deaths of passengers, crew, and several people inside the hostel.
🔥 How the Crash Happened
Just 30 seconds after takeoff, the cockpit issued a ‘Mayday’ distress signal. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion from the engine. The aircraft quickly lost control and crashed directly onto one of the hostel buildings, bursting into flames on impact. Thick smoke, fire, and screams engulfed the area, turning it into a scene of horror within moments.
⚰️ Casualties and Identification
- The aircraft was carrying 242 people (230 passengers, 12 crew members)
- 241 people onboard died in the crash
- At least 24 more were killed inside the hostel building
- The sole survivor is British national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, who jumped out through an emergency window and escaped
🕯️ Notable Victims
- Former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani
- Several doctors and medical students
- Veteran pilot Captain Arun Deshpande
🛠️ Rescue and Investigation
- Rescue efforts involved the NDRF, Indian Army, NSG, and fire services
- Most bodies were charred beyond recognition, requiring DNA testing
- The aircraft’s black box and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered
- The investigation now involves the US-based NTSB and FAA, the UK’s AAIB, India’s DGCA, Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Tata Group
🗣️ National and International Reactions
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow
- British PM Keir Starmer and King Charles conveyed strong condolences
- The US and UK pledged full support in the investigation
💰 Compensation and Assistance
- Tata Group has announced ₹1 crore compensation for each victim’s family
- Full medical treatment and rehabilitation are being ensured for the injured
- Ahmedabad Airport has resumed limited operations under special safety monitoring
This tragedy is being regarded as the deadliest air disaster in India’s aviation history. The entire nation mourns, while an international team probes the root causes behind the crash.
