June 12, 2025 — A major air tragedy struck Thursday morning when an Air India aircraft carrying over 200 people crashed near Ahmedabad Airport in western India during takeoff. The flight, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, went down in a civilian area close to the runway, officials from Air India and local police confirmed.
The flight, identified as AI-147, was reportedly carrying a total of 242 individuals, including passengers and crew, according to ANI, citing Gujarat state’s police control room. However, discrepancies remain, with CNN-News18 reporting the presence of 220 passengers and 12 crew members aboard.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the aircraft crashed shortly after leaving the ground. Local television footage captured the aftermath, showing parts of the wreckage engulfed in flames and dense black smoke billowing into the sky. Emergency response teams rushed to the scene, with ambulances and fire brigades engaged in rescue operations.
“Several people were seen being carried on stretchers and transported in ambulances to nearby hospitals,” a resident told reporters. The extent of injuries and possible fatalities remains unclear as authorities work to confirm details.
Air India released a brief statement on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, saying: “At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates.”
Officials have yet to release any information regarding the cause of the crash. Aviation experts say that an investigation will be launched by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to determine the cause of the crash during takeoff.
The crash site, situated near densely populated neighborhoods, has raised additional concerns about ground casualties. Police have cordoned off the area and are working to control crowds gathering near the wreckage.
Families of the passengers have begun arriving at the airport, with Air India setting up a crisis helpline and support center to assist those affected.
#BREAKING: AIR INDIA FLIGHT #AI171 CRASHES IN AHMEDABAD SHORTLY AFTER TAKEOFF
— Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler) June 12, 2025
Following reports of a crash involving Air India flight #AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (reg: VT-ANB) lost signal at 08:08:51 UTC, just seconds after takeoff.… pic.twitter.com/RKFhipU1ll
This incident marks one of the most serious aviation accidents in India in recent years, prompting an outpouring of concern and prayers nationwide. The Indian government is expected to issue an official statement later today as rescue and investigation efforts continue.