How Did the Air India Dreamliner Crash Result in 241 Fatalities?

Synopsis
A catastrophic event unfolded as an Air India Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in 241 fatalities and leaving only one survivor. This incident marks one of the darkest days in Indian aviation history. Read on to learn more about the details surrounding this tragedy and the ongoing investigations.
Key Takeaways
- 241 fatalities confirmed in the Air India Dreamliner crash.
- Only one survivor, a British national, is hospitalized.
- Emergency response activated in Ahmedabad post-crash.
- Air India offers condolences and support to affected families.
- Investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
New Delhi, June 13 (NationPress) In a tragic incident being referred to as one of the most devastating aviation catastrophes in India, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 individuals met with disaster shortly after departing from Ahmedabad airport. The flight, designated as AI-171 en route to London Gatwick, plunged into a residential area adjacent to BJ Medical College, resulting in the loss of 241 lives on board.
This unfortunate flight consisted of 230 passengers, 10 cabin crew members, and 2 pilots. Officials report that the sole survivor, a British national of Indian descent seated in 11A, is currently receiving medical attention at a local hospital.
The aircraft took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 p.m. (IST) on Thursday, only to lose control moments later and crash into a densely populated neighborhood, sparking a significant fire and activating emergency response teams throughout the city.
Air India verified the incident in an official statement on X: “UPDATE: Air India confirms that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on June 12, 2025, was involved in an accident. The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 13:38 hrs, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off. We regret to inform you that, of the 242 on board, 241 have been confirmed deceased. The lone survivor is currently under hospital care.”
The airline also provided details regarding the nationalities of passengers: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian.
“Air India extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Our current focus is entirely on assisting all those impacted, including their families and friends. A team of caregivers from Air India is now in Ahmedabad to offer further support,” the statement continued.
The national carrier has committed to full cooperation with authorities investigating the cause of the crash and has set up dedicated helplines for families seeking information.
Domestic callers can reach the support team at 1800 5691 444, while international callers should dial +91 8062779200.
Regular updates will be shared via Air India’s official website and its X handle.