Air India flight crashes in Ahmedabad, with 169 Indian, 61 foreign nationals on board

An Air India aircraft bound for London crashed in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon. Casualties are expected to be high as rescue efforts continue to evacuate victims.

According to Hindustan Times, the Tata Group-operated aircraft, carrying at least 242 passengers, crashed during takeoff near the Meghaninagar area of Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

The aircraft went down at 1:38 pm, crashing into the hostel building of BJ Medical College.

“Flight AI171, operating on the Ahmedabad–London Gatwick route, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025,” Air India said in a statement.

“At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest on our website and on our X handle,” it added.

According to the airline, the aircraft was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals.

A video surfaced online showing the aftermath of the Air India crash in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport.

Following the crash, thick plumes of black smoke were seen rising above the airport. NDTV reported that the flight crashed just minutes after takeoff, reportedly descending from an altitude of 825 feet.

The aftermath of the crash showed a charred building with aircraft debris embedded in it, as rescue workers continued to retrieve bodies and belongings of those on board.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the aviation sector.

“Devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert,” said Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu in an official statement.

“I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he added.

While the death toll is feared to be high, official confirmation regarding casualties and damage is still awaited.