Ahmedabad: Air India Plane Crashes In Residential Area With 242 Onboard, Including Gujarat Ex-CM Vijay Rupani

On June 12, 2025, a devastating air disaster unfolded in Ahmedabad when Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (registration VT-ANB), crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight, bound for London, was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members-totaling 242 individuals. Among those on board was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was reportedly traveling to London. His condition remains unconfirmed.

Initial Coverage

The aircraft went down within minutes of takeoff, crashing into the densely populated Meghaninagar area near Forensic Cross Road and IGB Ground. Eyewitnesses recounted a deafening explosion followed by intense flames and thick black smoke billowing across the neighborhood. The wreckage damaged several residential buildings, sparking chaos in the area.

Shocking visuals from the crash site revealed aircraft debris scattered across roads, rooftops, and homes, as rescue workers fought to control the fire and search for survivors.

Massive Rescue Operations Underway

Emergency services, including fire brigades, ambulances, police units, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were swiftly mobilized. The crash site has been cordoned off, with authorities urging residents to avoid the area to facilitate uninterrupted rescue operations.

At least 25 critically injured individuals were transported to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. However, officials have not clarified whether the injured were from the aircraft or were residents affected on the ground.

New Updates in Report: One Survivor, Over 241 Dead

In a grim update, latest reports confirm that 241 of the 242 people on board have died in the crash, making it one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in India's recent history. The sole survivor's identity and condition have not been disclosed. Additionally, several people on the ground were killed, including four students from the state-run B.J. Medical College who were present near the crash site at the time of impact.

Government Response and Ongoing Investigation

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, assuring full central support for relief and recovery efforts. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are expected to release detailed statements soon.

Preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft took off from runway 23 and issued a Mayday distress call moments before crashing. The exact cause is yet to be determined and is under active investigation.

As rescue teams continue to sift through the debris, more information is expected in the coming hours. The focus now remains on identifying victims and supporting affected families during this tragic time.