An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in western India on Thursday, according to local officials and the airline. Air India confirmed the incident, stating, “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight AI 171 operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today.”
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a popular long-haul aircraft, delivered to Air India in 2014. Initial flight data from FlightRadar24 indicates that the aircraft ascended to a maximum altitude of 625 feet-a height significantly above the airport’s elevation of roughly 200 feet-before beginning a steep descent, recorded at a vertical speed of -475 feet per minute.
Rescue operations are currently underway, with Air India announcing via social media that “the injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals.” The airline is working closely with local authorities to manage the aftermath. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his sadness over the incident, directing officials to prioritize immediate rescue efforts and medical care for the injured.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has temporarily suspended all flights following the crash. India’s Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, shared his condolences on social media, emphasizing that rescue teams have been deployed and medical assistance is being expedited to the crash site.
In a response to the unfolding situation, Boeing released a statement saying, “We are aware of initial reports and are working to gather more information.” The aviation community is closely monitoring developments, and CNBC has reached out to local police and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation for further insights.
The incident has reverberated through financial markets, with Boeing’s shares dropping 7.9% in pre-market trading shortly after the news broke. This unfolding tragedy is attracting significant attention, and updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.
As this story develops, our thoughts remain with those on board and their families during this distressing time. Emergency efforts and investigations into the cause of this tragic crash are ongoing, and we will provide further updates as details emerge.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/12/air-india-plane-crashes-at-ahmedabad-in-gujarat.html
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Publish Date: 2025-06-12 16:01:00
