Breaking: Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad. Full details, survivor reports, black box update, and DGCA investigation underway.
AHMEDABAD – June 13, 2025
The Flight 171 crash has become the deadliest air disaster in India’s history. On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people—230 passengers and 12 crew members—crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. Tragically, 241 lives were lost, and only one passenger survived.
Flight 171 Crash Timeline and Details
Flight AI171 departed Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM. Although the takeoff appeared normal, within 30 seconds, the aircraft lost altitude. Eyewitnesses reported hearing an explosion before seeing smoke and flames.
The plane struck a student hostel at B.J. Medical College, located in the Meghani Nagar area. Emergency services responded immediately. Despite their efforts, the damage and loss of life were overwhelming.
Flight 171 Crash Site and Fatalities
Because the crash occurred in a densely populated area, both onboard passengers and people on the ground were affected.
📊 Confirmed Fatalities:
- 241 onboard deaths
- 28 ground fatalities
- 1 survivor: Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national
Doctors confirm he is stable and under treatment. He survived by remaining strapped near the rear of the aircraft.
Flight 171 Investigation Begins
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) launched a full-scale investigation. Additionally, they are working closely with:
- The U.S. NTSB and FAA
- The UK AAIB
- Boeing and GE Aerospace
Both the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder have been recovered. Investigators are currently analyzing the data. Early theories include engine failure, flap system errors, or bird strike. However, the cause is not yet confirmed.
Government and Air India Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site the following morning. He described the incident as a “national tragedy” and ordered immediate safety inspections across India’s aviation sector.
Meanwhile, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson issued a formal statement:
“This tragedy is beyond words. We are fully cooperating with authorities and prioritizing support for families.”
The airline has grounded all Boeing 787 aircraft in its fleet pending further inspection.
Aircraft Details: What Went Wrong with Flight 171?
The aircraft, a 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (registration VT-ANB), is widely known for its safety features. Even so, experts stress that routine maintenance, pilot readiness, and real-time system checks must remain top priorities.
Because of the crash, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched a nationwide review of wide-body aircraft operations.
Flight 171 Crash Timeline
| Time (IST) | Key Events |
|---|---|
| 13:38 | Flight 171 takes off from Ahmedabad |
| ~13:39 | Explosion reported; Mayday call issued |
| ~13:40 | Aircraft crashes into B.J. Medical College hostel |
| 14:00–17:00 | Emergency rescue operations begin |
| June 13, 08:00 | Black boxes recovered and sent to AAIB |
| June 13, 10:00 | Prime Minister Modi visits the crash site |
🧠 What’s Next After the Flight 171 Crash?
In the coming days, authorities will:
- Complete analysis of black box data
- Conduct a full inspection of Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet
- Provide compensation and support to affected families
Additionally, the government has set up:
- Emergency hotlines
- DNA testing centers
- Grief counseling programs
Clearly, the pressure to reform aviation safety standards has intensified.
Lessons from the Flight 171 Crash
The Flight 171 crash has exposed the need for stronger safety enforcement in India’s aviation sector. While investigations continue, the public demands accountability and transparency.
Now is the time for action. India must enforce new standards, improve oversight, and restore public trust in air travel.
❓ FAQs About the Flight 171 Crash
What caused the Flight 171 crash?
The cause is still under investigation. Early signs point to engine or flap failure, but no official conclusion has been released yet.
Who survived the crash?
Only one passenger survived—Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British national.
Where did Flight 171 crash?
It crashed into a student hostel at B.J. Medical College in Ahmedabad.
What is Air India doing in response?
The airline grounded its Boeing 787 fleet and is assisting victims’ families while cooperating with investigators.
When will the investigation report be released?
A preliminary report is expected within 10 days of the crash, as per the AAIB.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article contains verified information from official Indian authorities, Air India, and global aviation agencies. All details are accurate as of June 13, 2025. Updates will be provided as more facts emerge.
📚 References
Bianca Marie Reyes, aka Tita BoomBi, is a 30-year-old Filipina content creator who turns everyday chika into real talk and real-time news. Known for her witty takes and no-fake-news style, she breaks down viral stories, headlines, and public updates into fun, bite-sized content for the digital Filipino. She’s your online tita, always tuned in and always telling it like it is. With a mix of humour and honesty, she keeps things relevant, relatable, and 100% not fake.