Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12 afternoon. The aircraft, carrying 242 individuals including 230 passengers and 12 crew members — went down near the densely populated Meghaninagar area, just outside the airport perimeter. Thick black smoke was seen billowing across the city skyline, visible as far as Vastrapur.
Sources confirmed that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was onboard the ill-fated flight. His name appeared as the 12th entry on the official passenger manifest, listed under Z class, a Business Class category. Rupani, who served as Chief Minister from August 2016 to September 2021, was one of several high-profile passengers on the flight. His current condition remains unconfirmed, as authorities continue to assess the extent of casualties.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran confirmed with “profound sorrow” that Air India Flight 171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a tragic accident.
In a statement issued by the airline, Chandrasekaran expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the incident.
“With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating from Ahmedabad to 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,” he said.
He further added that the airline’s immediate focus is on extending full support to those impacted by the tragedy.
“At this moment, 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,” Chandrasekaran stated.
“Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and a support team have been set up for families seeking information,” the statement read.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) released a preliminary statement detailing the sequence of the tragic event. According to the report, the aircraft departed at 1:39 PM IST from Runway 23 and issued a distress “MAYDAY” call to the Air Traffic Control (ATC). However, the ATC received no further communication from the pilots after the call. Within moments, the aircraft crashed outside the airport perimeter. The site immediately erupted in flames, with emergency response teams rushing to the scene.
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a highly experienced pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, was commanding the aircraft. He was assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours of flight time. Both were among the 12 crew members onboard the flight.
Thick plumes of smoke could be seen at the accident spot, and fire tenders have reached the spot.
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said, “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
The minister, who was in Vijayawada attending the first anniversary events of the NDA Government, rushed to Ahmedabad immediately upon receiving news of the flight crash. The Minister’s office said he is in constant contact with senior officials from DGCA, AAI, NDRF, and the Gujarat State administration to ensure a swift, coordinated response and support. Rescue and medical teams are on site. Passenger safety and emergency response remain the highest priorities.
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Home Minister and the Police Commissioner regarding the plane crash incident. He also assured to provide Central government assistance.
The Gujarat Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel, has given instructions to undertake immediate rescue and relief operations and immediate treatment of injured passengers in the wake of the Air India passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad on a war footing.
While the full scale of casualties is yet to be officially confirmed, early reports suggest that over 200 lives may have been lost in what is now being called one of the worst aviation disasters in India’s recent history. Local residents in Meghaninagar and surrounding areas rushed to the site in the immediate aftermath, attempting to assist trapped passengers before rescue authorities arrived.
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