Air India Dreamliner crash: Helpline number issued, Aviation Ministry activates control room
Ahmedabad: Following the tragic crash of Air India’s Flight AI 171, while en route from Ahmedabad to London, emergency relief and rescue efforts are being carried out in full gear.
While the nation prays for over 200 passengers on board, Air India issued a dedicated helpline number to help families and relatives of flyers seeking information about their condition.
“We have set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information,” Air India said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Ministry has set up a control room to coordinate all the details pertaining to AI 171 crash.
“In light of the AI171 crash, an Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry of Civil Aviation to coordinate all details. Contact: 011-24610843 | 9650391859. We are committed to swift response and full support to all affected,” said the Ministry in a post on X.
The ill-fated flight departed from Ahmedabad at 13:38 hours and was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Out of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, one Canadian national and seven Portuguese nationals.
The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Air India, sharing profound sorrow over the airliner crash, stated that the airline carrier’s primary focus is 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 said in a statement.
The aircraft took off from Runway 23 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. According to officials, a ‘Mayday’ (distress) call was issued moments after take-off, but no further communication was received from the cockpit.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) statement, the aircraft crashed outside the airport boundary, suggesting it failed to climb properly after takeoff.
169 Indians, 53 British nationals were aboard crashed AI flight to London
New Delhi: At least 169 Indians and 53 British nationals were travelling in Air India’s flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick which crashed soon after take-off, an airline official said on Thursday.
The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1.38 p.m. carrying 242 passengers and crew members, also had seven Portuguese nationals and a Canadian national on board.
The plane had 10 cabin crew, and two pilots – Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal, a long-time Air India pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours.
The first major crash since the national carrier’s privatisation in January 2022, led to the Tata Group-managed airline mourning the incident by changing its official ‘X’ account profile and cover photo to black as a mark of solidarity and respect for the departed souls.
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Air India, condoled the deaths by posting on X, “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 primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families,” he said.
“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. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support teams have been set up for families seeking information,” said Chandrasekaran.
The airline set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information.
The aircraft took off at 1.38 p.m. from Runway 23 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. According to officials, a Mayday call was issued moments after take-off, but no further communication was received from the cockpit.
According to a DGCA statement, the aircraft crashed outside the airport boundary, suggesting it failed to climb properly after takeoff.
DGCA officials reached the site for collecting flight data, voice recordings, and witness accounts as part of their investigation.
Sources said that Boeing representatives and officials are also expected to assist the ground staff.
Air India sets up emergency response centre after plane crash
Mumbai: In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on Thursday, shortly after take-off from the Ahmedabad airport with 242 people on board, the Tata Group airline has activated an emergency response centre and deployed dedicated support teams to assist the affected families.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said: “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.”
Confirming that Air India flight AI 171 operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today, he said: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
“Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information,” Chandrasekaran said.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB) had just taken off with 242 people on board, including two pilots and 10 cabin crew, when it crashed just outside the perimeter of Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
Ahmedabad airport officials said that all flight operations remain temporarily suspended until further notice.
An SVPIA spokesperson said that “Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational”.
“All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport,” said the spokesperson.
“We request your cooperation and patience as authorities manage this evolving situation. Further updates will be provided as soon as available,” said the spokesperson.
Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, who was in Vijayawada attending the first anniversary events of the NDA government, rushed to Ahmedabad immediately upon receiving news of the flight crash.
“Treating the incident with utmost urgency, the Minister cut short his engagements and is now en route to personally oversee the situation on the ground. He is in constant contact with senior officials from DGCA, AAI, NDRF, and the Gujarat State administration to ensure swift, coordinated response and support,” according to a Ministry statement.
“Rescue and medical teams are on site. Passenger safety and emergency response remain the highest priorities. Further updates will be shared by the Ministry as the situation develops,” it added.
List of 10 major civil aircraft crashes in India
New Delhi: The Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad on Thursday has turned the focus on civil aviation safety in the country, with the last major tragedy being recorded in 2020 in Calicut, which claimed 21 lives.
While the 1996 Charkhi Dadri mid-air Collision on November 12, 1996, which killed 349 people, remains the worst air tragedy in the country, some of the major civilian air crashes over the past decades include:
August 7, 2020, Calicut (Kozhikode) Air Crash: Air India Express Flight 1344 from Dubai crashed while landing at Calicut International Airport, killing 21 people. The aircraft skidded off a wet runway and broke into two.
May 22, 2010, Mangalore Air Crash: Air India Express Flight 812 overshot the runway at Mangalore, resulting in 158 deaths. The aircraft broke apart after falling into a gorge.
July 17, 2000, Patna Air Crash : A Boeing 737 on Alliance Air Flight 7412 crashed during landing at Patna, killing over 60 people. Loss of control due to pilot error was the cause.
November 12, 1996, Charkhi Dadri Mid-Air Collision: Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 and Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin Il-76 collided near Delhi, killing all 349 people on both aircraft. The cause was pilot error and miscommunication with air traffic control.
April 26, 1993, Aurangabad Air Crash: Indian Airlines Flight 491, a Boeing 737, crashed after takeoff from Aurangabad, hitting a truck and power lines, killing 55 people.
August 16, 1991, Imphal Air Crash: Indian Airlines Flight 257 crashed near Imphal, killing all 69 on board.
February 14, 1990, Bangalore Air Crash: Indian Airlines Flight 605, an Airbus A320, crashed on approach to Bangalore, killing 92 people.
October 19, 1988, Ahmedabad Air Crash: Indian Airlines Flight 113 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing 133.
June 21, 1982, Bombay Air Crash: Air India Flight 403 crashed at Bombay airport, killing 17.
January 1, 1978, Bombay Air Crash: Boeing 747 on Air India Flight 855 crashed into the Arabian Sea after takeoff from Mumbai, killing all 213 on board.
Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal CMs express sorrow over Air India plane crash
New Delhi: As an Air India flight bound for London, carrying over 240 passengers, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, political leaders across the country expressed grief over the tragedy.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel took to social media platform X to express deep sorrow over the incident and announce that emergency measures had been activated.
“I am deeply saddened by the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. I have instructed officials to begin immediate rescue and relief operations and to ensure treatment of the injured passengers on a war footing. A green corridor has been arranged to transport the injured to hospitals, where all necessary treatment arrangements are being prioritised,” he said.
He also said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had spoken with him and assured full support from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Central government for rescue and relief efforts.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi said on X: “Following this unfortunate incident, the Hon’ble Chief Minister has taken swift action. Hospitals are on high alert, and all ambulances, including 108 services, are ready. Senior officials have been deployed to both hospitals and the airport to ensure prompt response. NDRF and SDRF teams have reached the crash site. The Prime Minister’s Office is monitoring the situation closely and providing updates and guidance. Hon’ble Home Minister Amit Shah ji remains in touch and is actively guiding rescue efforts.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his grief.
“Pained and shocked to learn about the Air India passenger flight incident in Ahmedabad. Praying for everyone’s safety,” he said in a post on X.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said: “Stunned and profoundly shocked by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad today. This is heartbreaking news for all of us. I extend my condolences to the families of the victims. While we await details on survivors, I continue to pray for everyone’s safety. The crash, which occurred during takeoff, has shaken me deeply. Reports suggest that 242 passengers were on board. I pray for them all”.
AAP national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also posted, “God bless everyone.”
AAP leader Manish Sisodia added: “Heartbreaking news from Ahmedabad. A passenger aircraft has crashed near a residential area during takeoff. Images of smoke and devastation are deeply disturbing. My prayers for the safety of all passengers. May God give strength to affected families.”
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for transparency in the investigation. “There should be immediate clarification regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash so that all doubts are addressed. Prayers for all passengers and crew members. The highest level of rescue, relief, and medical treatment must be ensured.”
Shiv Sena-UBT Aaditya Thackeray also reacted on X: “Shocked and saddened to hear about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. We are praying for the safety of survivors and extend our sympathies to the families of those affected. Let’s hope for the best.”
Meanwhile, rescue and medical teams remain on site, with passenger safety and emergency response as the highest priorities.
Dramatic visuals from the crash site showed thick grey smoke billowing into the sky, visible from several kilometres away, including parts of Vastrapur. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as emergency sirens blared and local residents gathered nearby.
Firefighters, local police, and emergency medical services were among the first responders at the scene. NDRF teams have also been deployed to assist in ongoing rescue operations.
As of now, officials have not released specific details regarding casualties or the cause of the crash. Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of the crash site to allow emergency crews to operate without obstruction.
Ahmedabad crash: Civil Aviation Minister expresses shock, leaves for Gujarat
New Delhi: A London-bound Air India flight carrying over 200 passengers crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, triggering a massive emergency response. The incident occurred near the Meghaninagar area of the city.
Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed deep shock over the crash. “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,” the minister posted on X.
He added that rescue teams had been rushed to the spot. “All efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are immediately provided. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” Kinjarapu said.
Rammohan Naidu, who was in Vijayawada attending the first anniversary events of the NDA Government, rushed to Ahmedabad immediately upon receiving news of the flight crash.
Treating the incident with utmost urgency, the Minister cut short his engagements and is now en route to personally oversee the situation on the ground. He is in constant contact with senior officials from DGCA, AAI, NDRF, and the Gujarat State administration to ensure swift, coordinated response and support.
Rescue and medical teams are on site. Passenger safety and emergency response remain the highest priorities.
Further updates will be shared by the Ministry as the situation develops.
Dramatic visuals from the crash site showed thick plumes of grey smoke billowing into the sky, visible from several kilometres away, including parts of Vastrapur. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion in the area as emergency sirens blared and local residents gathered at a distance.
Firefighters, local police, and emergency medical teams were among the first responders at the site. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been deployed to assist in rescue and relief operations.
Officials have not yet released details on the number of casualties or the cause of the crash. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the area to allow emergency teams to carry out their work without hindrance.
Further updates are awaited as the situation continues to unfold.
Air India’s flight AI171 crashes in Ahmedabad, airline shares update
Ahmedabad: Air India’s London-bound Flight AI171 with over two hundred passengers aboard crashed near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, said the airline.
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details,” Air India said, sharing an update on its X handle.
Officials are yet to release any official information about the casualties or the reason behind the crash.
Visuals from the site show a thick plume of grey smoke rising from the ground. At least two dozen ambulances were rushed to the spot for relief and containment efforts. Some of the injured have been rushed to the nearby hospital.
Meanwhile, TV reports said that an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying over 250 passengers crashed just after taking off from Ahmedabad airport. The flight that was going to London went down between 1 pm and 2 pm.
The police have diverted traffic from the area.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah is understood to have spoken to the Gujarat Chief Minister, Home Minister and the Police Commissioner about the plane crash, regarding all possible Central assistance.
Plane crashes near Ahmedabad airport, over 100 passengers on board
Ahmedabad: A London-bound Air India aircraft carrying 130 passengers crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad airport. This took place near Meghaninagar area in Ahmedabad.
Visuals from the crash site showed thick plume of grey smoking rising from the ground.
Firefighters and emergency teams were dispatched immediately to begin rescue and containment efforts. Officials are yet to release information about possible injuries or the cause of the crash.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area as operations are still underway.
Eyewitnesses reported heavy smoke rising from the crash site, which could be seen from several kilometers away, including parts of Vastrapur. The sudden incident caused alarm among local residents.
More updates are expected as the situation develops.
