Final Takeoff: What We Know About the Air India AI171 Crash in Gujarat

Ahmedabad, India — In one of the worst air disasters in recent Indian aviation history, Air India’s London-bound flight AI171 crashed during takeoff from Ahmedabad today, killing and injuring dozens, and leaving hundreds of families in anguish. The Dreamliner was carrying 242 souls, with the crash taking place just moments after it left the runway.

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8, took off from Runway 23 around 1:38 p.m. IST. Within minutes, the pilot sent out a “Mayday” signal due to technical difficulties. Despite the crew’s efforts to stabilize the aircraft, it descended rapidly and crashed near a densely populated residential area, avoiding a larger catastrophe by mere hundreds of meters.

Victims and Survivors

As of the latest update, authorities have not confirmed an exact death toll, but preliminary reports suggest heavy casualties. Several passengers were pulled out alive with severe injuries and are being treated at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and private trauma centers.

The passenger manifest includes:

• 125 Indian citizens

• 53 British nationals

• 18 Portuguese citizens

• 9 Canadians

• Several minors and elderly passengers

Families at departure and arrival terminals were seen wailing in despair as the news broke.

Ground Zero: The Crash Site

The crash site, located adjacent to the old airport wall in Meghani Nagar, was strewn with luggage, charred fuselage sections, and burning jet fuel. First responders had to douse the fire before beginning the recovery operation. A nearby residential building suffered minor damage, but miraculously no civilian casualties on the ground were reported.

International Attention

The Indian and British governments are working in coordination to assist affected families. British Prime Minister issued a statement expressing condolences and offered support through consular services.

The Canadian and Portuguese embassies in India have activated crisis hotlines for families.

Aviation Safety In Question

Though the Boeing 787 is considered among the safest and most modern aircraft, the crash has raised serious questions about Air India’s fleet maintenance and flight safety protocols. The airline was recently restructured under Tata Group ownership and was undergoing fleet modernization — making this crash a serious blow to its safety reputation.

Flight data from Flightradar24 shows irregular climb rates and sudden descent patterns within three minutes of takeoff. Experts suggest possibilities of engine failure, instrument malfunction, or bird strike, though nothing has been confirmed.

What’s Next?

Aviation officials have sealed the crash site for forensic and technical examination. Black box recovery has been confirmed, and it has been sent for analysis. Families of the victims will receive counseling and compensation in accordance with international aviation laws.