A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operated by Air India crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The flight was en route to London Gatwick with 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
Aircraft lost control moments after departure
The jet departed around 5:12 AM local time but lost contact with air traffic control less than a minute into the flight. It reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet before descending sharply. The plane crashed in the densely populated Meghaninagar area, striking a residential compound and a hostel adjacent to a hospital.
Heavy casualties reported
Rescue teams have confirmed at least 204 fatalities. Emergency services continue to search the wreckage, and officials warn the final death toll could be higher. Several victims were reportedly residents or staff members from nearby buildings struck during impact.
Sole survivor in critical condition
One passenger, a 40-year-old British national seated in 11A, survived the crash. He was pulled from the debris with serious injuries and remains hospitalized. His survival is being described as miraculous by first responders.
First fatal accident involving a Boeing 787
This is the first total hull loss of a Boeing 787 since the aircraft entered commercial service in 2011. Investigators from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have begun working with Boeing and international agencies to determine the cause.
Mayday issued before descent
According to preliminary air traffic control data, the flight issued a mayday signal moments before it began descending. Authorities have recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder for analysis. Mechanical failure, structural damage, or environmental conditions have not been ruled out.
Government reaction and international support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and pledged full support for the investigation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also released a statement offering assistance and solidarity. Emergency operations at the airport were briefly suspended but have since resumed on a limited basis.
Investigation ongoing
The DGCA and AAIB are jointly reviewing all maintenance records, crew logs, and onboard data. Officials have called for patience as the investigation continues, stressing that a full report could take weeks or months to complete. Meanwhile, families of the victims are being supported by Air India and local authorities.