Ahmedabad plane crash: Air India passenger plane with over 242 onboard crashes near airport

Ahmedabad: An Air India plane with over 242 passengers onboard crashed near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which was headed to UK, departed from Ahmedabad at 1:39 pm from runway 23. It crashed in just five minutes after take off, according to details shared by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals.

Thick plumes of smoke could be seen at the accident spot. At the crash site, multiple fire engines and ambulances have been sent to carry out rescue operations.

The plane had 242 people onboard consisting of 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew. The aircraft was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar.

According to the statement by DGCA, “As per ATC, aircraft departed from Ahmadabad at 1339 IST (0809 UTC) from runway 23. It gave a MAYDAY Call to ATC, but thereafter, no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC. Aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on the ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site.”

The plane crashed directly on the BJ Medical College UG hostel mess in Meghani Nagar. Many MBBS students have lost their lives.

All 242 on board dead (bodies not able to recover as of now) plus 75 dead bodies (recovered) of residents of Atulyam Flats (3 buildings/Civil Hospital staff Quarters, Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad). In 94 flats, approx. 200 residents were staying at the time of crash as per Civil Hospital Staff.

Air India took to X and confirmed that, “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025,” it said, adding that the team continues to ascertain the details on the same.

They have also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information.

Amit Shah speaks to Gujarat CM

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Home Minister and the Police Commissioner regarding the plane crash incident.

Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad.” He said, “We are on 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.”

Investigation Initiated

Following the tragic incident in Ahmedabad, a formal investigation has been initiated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in line with international protocols set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Additionally, the Government is constituting a high-level committee comprising experts from multiple disciplines to examine the matter in detail. The committee will work to strengthen aviation safety and prevent such incidents in future.