New Delhi [India], June 12: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has directed immediate rescue and relief operations following the tragic crash of Air India’s London-bound Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad. The Dreamliner aircraft, carrying 242 people including 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
Reacting swiftly to the crisis, CM Patel spoke with Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and other senior officials, ordering the creation of a green corridor to ensure the swift transfer of injured passengers to hospitals and prioritised medical care. The Chief Minister emphasized conducting operations on a war footing to save lives.
Air India confirmed the incident in an official statement:
“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 as soon as possible.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reached out to Gujarat officials including the CM, Home Minister, and Police Commissioner, assuring full central assistance in handling the aftermath.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft — a Boeing 787 (registration VT-ANB) — gave a MAYDAY call to Air Traffic Control (ATC) shortly after departing at 13:39 IST from runway 23. However, no further communication followed, and the aircraft crashed just beyond the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported thick black smoke billowing from the crash site.
The flight was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a senior pilot with 8200 flying hours, assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1100 hours of flying experience.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to provide medical aid and relief. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he said.
Rescue operations are currently underway, and further updates are expected from Air India and aviation authorities.