- Saturday, June 14, 2025
A nation grieves as Air India flight AI171 crashes in Ahmedabad, killing 241 people including ex-CM Vijay Rupani. Only one survivor. Investigation underway as global condolences pour in and India grapples with its deadliest aviation disaster in years.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
A devastating tragedy struck Ahmedabad on Thursday (12), when Air India flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed moments after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people—including 230 passengers and 12 crew members—plummeted into the residential quarters of BJ Medical College in the Meghaninagar area, resulting in a catastrophic loss of life and widespread destruction.
Vijaybhai and I also worked extensively when he was Gujarat CM. He ushered in many measures that enhanced Gujarat’s growth trajectory, particularly in boosting ‘Ease of Living.’ Will always cherish the interactions we had. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this hour… pic.twitter.com/bH9gqVPHao
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2025
Catastrophic Crash and Immediate Response
The aircraft took off at 1:38 p.m. and, within five minutes, lost altitude and crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel mess, where over 100 students were gathered for lunch. The impact triggered a massive explosion, sending a thick plume of smoke into the sky and igniting a fire that engulfed the building and surrounding vehicles.
Witnesses described the plane flying unusually low before it struck the residential quarters, causing extensive damage to the hostel and injuring several people on the ground.
Emergency services responded rapidly, with multiple fire engines and ambulances dispatched to the scene. Rescue operations were launched immediately, but the intensity of the fire—fueled by over 125,000 liters of aviation fuel—made survival nearly impossible for those onboard.
Only one passenger, identified as Vishwaskumar Ramesh, miraculously survived. He was seated in 11A, an economy class window seat near an emergency exit, which may have contributed to his escape.
Visited the crash site in Ahmedabad today. The scene of devastation is saddening. Met officials and teams working tirelessly in the aftermath. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their loved ones in this unimaginable tragedy. pic.twitter.com/R7PPGGo6Lj
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2025
High-Profile Victims and National Mourning
Among the 241 people who perished was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, adding to the list of prominent Indian political figures lost in air tragedies. Other victims included Indian-origin Canadian dentist Nirali Patel, who was returning to Toronto, and several families and students headed to London for studies or work.
The crash has left countless families in mourning, with stories emerging of young students like Sanket Goswami, who had worked tirelessly to secure a place at a London university, and entire families who perished together.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site and met with the lone survivor in hospital, expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to the bereaved families. “The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and heart-breaking manner is beyond words. We understand their pain and also know that the void left behind will be felt for years to come. Om Shanti,” Modi posted on X.
Investigation and Relief Measures
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a formal investigation into the crash, with technical teams from Boeing expected to assist in determining the cause. Early reports suggest the pilots issued a ‘Mayday’ call immediately after takeoff, indicating a life-threatening emergency, but lost contact with air traffic control soon after.
We are all devastated by the air tragedy in Ahmedabad. The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and heartbreaking manner is beyond words. Condolences to all the bereaved families. We understand their pain and also know that the void left behind will be felt for years to come.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2025
Possible causes being examined include mechanical failure, bird strike, or overloading, though official conclusions are pending a thorough investigation. The DGCA and Air India have activated operational control rooms and helplines to assist families and coordinate relief efforts. Air India has set up help centers in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gatwick, and Tata Group has announced $120,000 compensation for the families of each victim.
Community and International Response
The tragedy has drawn condolences from around the world, including messages from Chinese President Xi Jinping and the British royal family, given the significant number of international passengers onboard. The Indian government, led by Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has pledged full support for rescue, relief, and investigation efforts.
As the nation mourns the loss of 241 lives in one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved, investigating the causes, and ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future. The lone survivor’s story stands as a rare glimmer of hope amid overwhelming grief, as the country unites in remembrance and resolve
