A London-bound Air India flight, AI171, crashed into a residential area near Meghaninagar shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, including Captain Sumit Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder.

The aircraft took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 p.m. IST and issued a MAYDAY call moments later. However, all communication was lost shortly after, and the aircraft crashed outside the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported heavy black smoke rising from the site, which is densely populated.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed the crash and stated that the plane fell shortly after takeoff. Captain Sabharwal had over 8,200 flying hours, while the co-pilot had 1,100 hours of experience.

Rescue operations are currently underway, and several casualties are feared, though no official toll has been confirmed. Emergency teams, including firefighters, NDRF personnel, and local police, are at the scene conducting rescue efforts and securing the area.

Air India issued a statement via its official X handle, saying: “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 at the earliest.”

The crash has prompted the suspension of all operations at Ahmedabad airport. Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu is en route to personally oversee the situation and is in contact with DGCA, AAI, and state authorities.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and authorities work to determine the cause of the crash.