A devastating aviation tragedy unfolded Thursday afternoon when Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft was carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
The flight lost contact with air traffic control at 13:38 IST after reaching approximately 625 feet in altitude. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft burst into flames as it plummeted into the Meghani Nagar area, crashing near a residential building and a doctors' hostel. The impact caused a massive explosion, sending thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky.
Among the victims were 53 British nationals, seven from Portugal, one from Canada, and several high-profile Indian citizens, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Officials have not yet released an official death toll, but local authorities confirmed that no survivors have been found as of Thursday evening.
Emergency crews, including fire brigades and ambulances, rushed to the crash site. More than five fire engines were deployed to control the blaze and secure the scene. Search and recovery operations continue under dangerous conditions due to debris and residual fire hazards.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu issued a public statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident. “We are doing everything we can to support families of the victims and ensure a full investigation,” he said. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an inquiry into the crash, alongside international aviation safety bodies.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed condolences, calling the crash “a heartbreaking loss for families in both our nations.”
This is the first recorded hull-loss involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its commercial debut and the worst air disaster in Air India’s history since the bombing of Flight 182 in 1985.
Officials urge the public to avoid the crash site while recovery efforts are underway. More details are expected as the investigation continues.