In one of the darkest days in Indian aviation history, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a college hostel moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing at least 269 people, including 241 onboard and 28 on the ground on June 12, 2025
The ill-fated Flight AI171, en route to London Gatwick, plummeted into the B.J. Medical College hostel around 1:39 PM IST, sparking massive flames and chaos in the densely populated Meghani Nagar area. Emergency responders, fire brigades, and hospital staff worked through the night to recover bodies and assist the injured.
🧍 Only One Survivor
In a miraculous twist, Viswashkumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British-Indian, survived by leaping from a broken emergency exit moments before the plane ignited. He is currently being treated for fractures and severe trauma.
🌍 Victims from Around the World
The victims included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese citizens, and a Canadian—along with students and faculty in the hostel struck by the crash.
🔍 Cause Still Unknown
Flight data from the black box has been recovered, but the cockpit voice recorder remains missing. Investigators suspect potential mechanical failure, with reports indicating the landing gear may have remained deployed during takeoff. A joint probe is underway with the DGCA, Boeing, and international aviation authorities.
This is the first fatal Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash since its debut in 2011 and the deadliest crash on Indian soil since 1996.
🕊️ Mourning a Nation
The Government of India has declared a national day of mourning, and Air India has grounded its remaining Dreamliner fleet for inspection. World leaders, including from the UK and Portugal, have offered condolences.
As investigations continue, questions are being raised about Air India’s maintenance standards and the broader implications of privatized aviation oversight in India.
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