Air India flight AI-171 crashed after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing over 100. AAIB has launched a high-level probe. Relief flights and financial aid are being provided to victims’ families. Prime Minister Modi and Tata Group express condolences amid ongoing rescue operations.
In a tragic incident that has shocked the nation, Air India flight AI-171, a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) on Thursday, killing over 100 people. The crash has prompted an urgent response from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which has dispatched its senior-most officials to lead a comprehensive investigation.
The AAIB, operating under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, confirmed that a high-level team led by the Director General and Director of Investigation is en route to Ahmedabad. Their objective is to determine the exact cause of the crash, recover flight data and voice recorders, examine wreckage, and coordinate with both domestic and international aviation authorities. The bureau’s final report is expected to include recommendations aimed at preventing such disasters in the future.
The ill-fated flight had taken off on schedule for London Gatwick but crashed approximately nine minutes after receiving clearance for takeoff. The crash occurred in the densely populated Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad, complicating rescue and relief operations due to intense smoke and debris. Airport operations at SVPIA have been suspended until further notice.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and said the incident had “stunned and saddened everyone.” Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, who was in Vijayawada at the time, immediately left for Ahmedabad. He confirmed that emergency response teams were working tirelessly at the site and that all efforts were being made to rush medical assistance and relief supplies.
In a brief statement, aircraft manufacturer Boeing acknowledged awareness of the crash, stating: “We are aware of initial reports and are working to gather more information.”
The flight was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, both of whom are believed to have perished in the crash. The investigation will also examine the flight’s maintenance records and operational history to assess whether technical failures played a role.
To support the families of those affected, Air India has announced two special relief flights—one each from Delhi and Mumbai to Ahmedabad. According to the airline’s official social media handle, the Delhi flight (IX1555) departed at 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, with the return flight (IX1556) scheduled for 1:10 a.m. on June 13. Similarly, the Mumbai flight (AI1402) departed at 11:00 p.m., with the return flight (AI1409) scheduled at 1:15 a.m.
These special services are intended to bring relatives of passengers and Air India personnel to the crash site and local hospitals. The airline has also set up dedicated helplines for domestic and international callers: 1800 5691 444 and +91 8062779200, respectively.
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In a compassionate gesture, Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran announced that the company will offer financial assistance of ₹1 crore to the family of each deceased victim. “No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment,” he said, adding that Air India will also cover the medical expenses of the injured. Tata Group will additionally help construct a hostel at B.J. Medical College as part of its long-term support efforts.
Noel Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts, echoed the sentiment, stating, “This heart-wrenching incident has brought immense grief to countless families, and our thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones.”
As recovery operations continue and the nation mourns the loss of so many lives, the AAIB’s investigation will play a critical role in uncovering the truth behind this devastating aviation tragedy.
