Tragedy Strikes as Air India Flight AI171 Crashes Shortly After Takeoff
On the morning of June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed just minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad International Airport. The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick and was carrying a total of 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
The manifest listed nationals from multiple countries: 169 Indians, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian. According to emergency response updates, 204 bodies have been recovered, while the fate of 38 individuals remains uncertain.
Survivor Discovered Amid Wreckage
Contrary to earlier reports that all on board had perished, authorities later confirmed that one survivor, identified as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British-Indian national, was found alive but severely injured. He is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital in Gujarat.
Swift Emergency Response and Ongoing Investigation
Rescue teams and first responders arrived at the crash site within minutes. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading the investigation alongside Boeing and international aviation safety agencies. Preliminary analysis is still ongoing, and officials have yet to confirm the cause of the crash.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the families of those affected. The government has promised full support for the investigation and for the victims’ families.
Global Attention on Indian Aviation Safety
This disaster has drawn worldwide concern, particularly given the aircraft involved — the widely used Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Aviation experts are calling for a thorough examination of flight data, black box recordings, and aircraft maintenance records.
The crash has reignited discussions around airline safety, pilot training, and emergency preparedness, not just in India but globally.
Conclusion
As the nation mourns the lives lost, the spotlight now turns to ensuring answers are found and lessons learned. More updates are expected in the coming days as investigations unfold.
This is a developing story. Check back on alphayem.com.ng for continuous updates on this tragic incident.
