Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers on the flight; Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirms his death
The plane, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was carrying over 200 passengers.
In a post on social media platform X, Air India said, "Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest."
"We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25," said London Gatwick LGW Airport in a statement on X.
"With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI 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. 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 team have been set up for families," said Air India chairman N Chandrasekaran in a statement.
DGCA says: 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 ground outside the airport perimeter”.
"Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi personally spoke to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Rammohan Naidu, and took stock of the Air India flight crash incident in Ahmedabad.
The Minister informed the Prime Minister that he is rushing to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief operations on the ground. The Prime Minister has directed the Minister to ensure all necessary support is extended immediately and asked to be kept regularly updated on the situation.
All relevant agencies are on high alert, and coordinated efforts are underway," says Ministry of Civil Aviation in a statement.
"Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport. As a result, 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.
We request your cooperation and patience as authorities manage this evolving situation. Further updates will be provided as soon as available," said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) spokesperson in a statement.
"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground," said Adani group founder and chairman Gautam Adani in a statement on X.
"Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. 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.
We have also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information. Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident," said Air India in a statement released on X.
"The news of many people being killed in the plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is extremely sad. Regarding this tragic incident, I spoke to Gujarat BJP State President and Union Minister Shri @CRPaatil ji and the State Health Minister Shri @irushikeshpatel and took information about health facilities and relief work. I appeal to all BJP workers to engage in relief and rescue operations and provide all possible help to the affected families. I pray to God to give strength to the bereaved families to bear the unbearable pain and to provide speedy recovery to the injured," said Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda in a statement on X.
"Distressed on hearing about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. My prayers for all families and friends of those on board the flight," said Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a statement on X.
"Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed to the crash site. Spoke with the Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police Ahmedabad to assess the situation," said Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a statement on X.
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
"The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar. Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal is a LTC with 8200 Hrs of experience. The copilot had 1100Hrs of flying experience," says DGCA.
"Deeply pained to learn about the plane crash in Ahmedabad. I convey my deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We stand firmly with those grieving and pray for the quick recovery of those injured. Om Shanti," says Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal in a post on X.
"We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident near Ahmedabad airport. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, and their families. We stand united in spirit with Air India in this very difficult time," said IndiGo in a post on X.
"Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Disaster response forces are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone on board and their families," says Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in a post on X.
"The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating.
I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time," says UK PM Keir Starmer in a statement on X.
"Deeply saddened and disturbed by the news of the Air India passenger flight mishap at Ahmedabad airport.
My thoughts are with all onboard, praying for everyone’s well-being and safety," says Union MoS (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav in a statement on X.
"In response to the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, the Disaster Management Team of Western Railway is actively extending full support in relief and rescue operations at the site, while maintaining close coordination with the State.
WR Medical Team and RPF personnel have also already been deployed for assisting in rescue operations.
Additionally, Western Railway will operate extra trains from Ahmedabad based on demand. As of now one train for Mumbai and one train for Delhi are being planned from Ahmedabad," said Western Railways in a post on X.
"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," said PM Modi in a statement on X.
"Deeply saddened by the tragic flight crash in Ahmedabad. Praying for the safety of all passengers and crew onboard. Thoughts are with families affected," said Electronics and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a statement on X.
"The Ahmedabad Air India crash is heartbreaking. The pain and anxiety the families of the passengers and crew must be feeling is unimaginable. My thoughts are with each one of them in this incredibly difficult moment. Urgent rescue and relief efforts by the administration are critical - every life matters, every second counts. Congress workers must do everything they can to help on the ground," said Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, Lok Sabha (INC MP), in a statement on X.
"We are aware of a plane crash in Ahmedabad. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support to those involved. British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000," said UK government in a statement.
"Following the tragic crash of London-bound Air India flight AI 171 near Ahmedabad Airport, CISF personnel immediately activated emergency protocols and rushed to the site. Rescue operations are being carried out in close coordination with local authorities and emergency services. CISF stands in solidarity with the victims and their families in this hour of grief," said Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt.of India, in a statement on X.
"Following the incident near Ahmedabad Airport and the resulting runway restrictions, flight operations are impacted.
Our thoughts are with the families of those affected. We seek your kind understanding, as these are truly challenging times for everyone.
If your flight is impacted, you may rebook or claim a full refund via our website. Our teams remain on standby across all channels to support you," said IndiGo in a post on X.
"In addition to the dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444, we have added another hotline number for foreign nationals +91 8062779200.
Air India requests media persons not to call the dedicated passenger hotline number," said Air India in a statement on X.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Air India Flight AI-171. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones of those impacted. We have activated our emergency response team, and we are prepared to support our customer and the investigation," said GE Aerospaces in a post on X. The aircraft was powered by GE Aerospace's GEnx-1B engines. The company is a major supplier of engines and systems for Boeing aircraft.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident involving Air India Flight 171 on its journey from Ahmedabad to London. This heart-wrenching incident has brought immense grief to countless families, and our thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and stand in solidarity with them during this unimaginable time. We offer our prayers and support as they navigate this profound loss," said Noel Tata, chairman, Tata Trusts in a statement.
"I would like to express our deep sorrow about this event. This is a difficult day for all of us at Air India. And our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, their families and loved ones. Air India flight AI 171 operated with the Boeing 787 Dash 8 aircraft travelling from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, has been involved in an accident after takeoff. Flight AI 171 was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. Of the passengers, 169 are Indian nationals. 53 are British nationals. There are 7 Portuguese nationals. And one Canadian National. The injured passengers have been taken by local authorities to the nearest hospitals. We are actively working with the authorities on all emergency response efforts. A special team of caregivers from Air India is on their way to Ahmedabad to provide additional support. The investigations will take time," said Campbell Wilson, CEO, Air India, in a video statement.
"No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Tata Group will provide ₹1 crore to the families of each person who has lost their life in this tragedy. We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support. Additionally, we will provide support in the building up of the B J Medical's hostel," announced N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons, in a statement on X.
"Heartbroken to hear the news of a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. My prayers are with all who lost their loved ones in this horrible incident. We continue to monitor developments and stand with the emergency responders working to help those impacted," said U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Air India is organising two relief flights, one each from Delhi and Mumbai, to Ahmedabad for the next of kin of passengers and Air India staff.
"Details of the flights
1. IX1555 – Delhi-Ahmedabad Time of departure: 2300 hrs on 12 June
2. IX1556 – Ahmedabad-Delhi Time of departure: 0110 hrs on 13 June
3. AI1402 – Mumbai-Ahmedabad Time of departure: 2300 hrs on 12 June
4. AI1409 – Ahmedabad-Mumbai Time of departure: 0115 hrs on 13 June
Next of kin of passengers and staff in Delhi and Mumbai wanting to travel on these flights can call our hotline on 1800 5691 444. Additionally, those coming in from international destinations and wanting to travel can call our hotline on +91 8062779200," the airline carrier said in a post on X.
Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani was among the passengers on the flight. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has confirmed his death.
"Deeply pained by the tragic demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani ji in the unfortunate plane crash in Ahmedabad. He will be remembered as a grassroots leader who devoted his life for the development & welfare of his state. Condolences to his bereaved family. Om Shanti," said Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh in a post on X.
"Vijay Rupani was a Member of the Rajya Sabha during 2006-2012. I still recall our not infrequent arguments and clashes in the House as also the friendly conversations in the now-extinct Central Hall where we would talk about climate change, urban heat, environment, and Myanmar where he was born - like the CPM leader Prakash Karat. He was extremely affable and the aggression in the House would very often be accompanied with a smile," said Congress MP Jairam Ramesh in a post on X.
"Visited the hospital and met with the people injured in the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Spoke with the affected family members and assured them of every possible support required for the swift recovery of the injured. Also discussed with the doctors about their present health conditions," said Union home minister Amit Shah in a post on X.
"Inspected the site of the fatal plane crash in Ahmedabad. The whole nation is mourning the unfortunate incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones," he added.
The London-bound flight, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, resulted in 241 confirmed fatalities, Air India said in a late-night statement.
"The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off. We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital. The survivor is a British national of Indian origin," Air India said in a statement on X posted at 12:41 AM.
"Air India offers its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of all those affected, their families and loved ones. A team of caregivers from Air India is now in Ahmedabad to provide additional support. Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident," the airline added.
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