Casualties remain unconfirmed. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion and thick black smoke from the wreckage. Social media videos showed emergency crews battling flames as stunned residents watched the scene unfold
Published Jun 12, 2025 | 3:58 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 12, 2025 | 7:53 PM
Air India flight AI 171 crashed near Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff, confirms chairman N Chandrasekaran
Synopsis: Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on 12 June, confirmed Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran. In a statement, he expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of those affected. Tata Group has pledged ₹1 crore in compensation to the families of each victim who lost their life in the incident.
Air India Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a tragic crash shortly after takeoff on Thursday, 12 June, Chairman of Air India N Chandrasekaran confirmed in a statement posted on social media.
“With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event,” Chandrasekaran wrote.
“Our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted,” he added, noting that an emergency centre had been activated and support teams deployed.
With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.
At this moment, our…— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) June 12, 2025
The flight, which had been scheduled to land at London Gatwick at 18:25 local time, crashed in the Meghaninagar locality near Ahmedabad airport shortly after departure.
London Gatwick Airport confirmed the aircraft’s intended arrival time and said more information would follow.
We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25.
More information to follow. pic.twitter.com/nWcXcAF81a
— London Gatwick LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) June 12, 2025
Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171, calling it an unimaginable loss.
“We are deeply anguished by the tragic event involving Air India Flight 171. No words can adequately express the grief we feel,” he said in a statement, extending condolences to the bereaved and support to the injured.
Tata Group has pledged ₹1 crore in compensation to the families of each victim who lost their life in the incident. The conglomerate will also cover full medical expenses for those injured and ensure they receive continued care and support.
In addition, Tata has committed to supporting the reconstruction of the B J Medical College hostel, which was affected in the aftermath.
“We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time,” Chandrasekaran affirmed.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft was carrying 242 people, including two pilots and 10 cabin crew.
The flight was captained by Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 hours of flight experience, alongside First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged approximately 1,100 hours.
The flight was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals.
The extent of casualties has not yet been confirmed. Eyewitnesses near the crash site reported a loud explosion followed by thick black smoke rising from the wreckage. Video footage circulating on social media showed emergency responders battling flames as residents looked on in shock.
Operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have been temporarily suspended in the wake of the crash, an airport spokesperson confirmed.
Investigations have been initiated by the DGCA and other aviation authorities. Further updates are expected as more verified information becomes available.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
