Tragic Air India Crash Claims Over 260 Lives Near Ahmedabad
In a devastating incident, Air India flight AI 171 crashed on June 12 shortly after departing from Ahmedabad Airport en route to London Gatwick. The flight was carrying 242 passengers and crew, including citizens of India, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Portugal.
The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet before plummeting to the ground roughly four miles from the airport. It struck a medical college hostel during its descent, triggering an immediate and large-scale emergency response. Authorities have so far confirmed 265 fatalities, a number that includes casualties on the ground. Search and recovery operations remain ongoing, and the death toll may rise.
Miraculously, one person is known to have survived the crash — 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh.
The flight was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder. According to India’s aviation authority, a mayday call was issued moments before the crash reporting critical mechanical failure: “Mayday […] no thrust, losing power, unable to lift.” Communication was lost shortly after.
Preliminary investigations suggest a potential catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff, rendering the aircraft unable to maintain altitude. A full investigation is currently underway.
Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran described the event as a “tragic accident” and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. He assured that the airline is working closely with authorities and has set up dedicated support centers to assist those affected.
Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
