An Air India flight bound for London Gatwick has crashed during takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport, according to Indian media and official airline statements.
The flight, AI171, was departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in the western Indian city when the incident occurred.
What We Know So Far
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The crash occurred at approximately 9:50am local time
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The aircraft crashed in a civilian area outside the airport perimeter
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More than 200 passengers were reportedly onboard
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Casualties and injuries remain unconfirmed, though visuals show passengers being carried on stretchers
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Massive smoke plumes were seen rising near the airport
Air India Statement:
“A flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in an incident today. We are ascertaining details and will share further updates at the earliest.”
Location of Incident
Local police have confirmed that the aircraft went down in a populated area just outside the airport grounds. Emergency responders, including fire services, ambulances, and police, are on the scene.
Live footage broadcast by Indian TV channels shows injured passengers being evacuated, with multiple ambulances dispatched to nearby hospitals.
Flight Details
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Flight Number: AI171
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Route: Ahmedabad (AMD) → London Gatwick (LGW)
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Aircraft Type: To be confirmed
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Scheduled Departure: Morning of 12 June 2025
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Reported Passengers: 100–200+ (unconfirmed)
Investigations Underway
Indian aviation authorities and Air India internal teams are coordinating emergency response and investigation efforts. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to release a preliminary incident report later today.
Officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the crash, though eyewitnesses report the aircraft struggled to gain altitude before going down.
Updates to Follow
This is a developing story. The Sentinel Current will provide live updates as more information becomes available regarding:
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The status of passengers and crew
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Rescue and medical response
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Flight manifest and aircraft details
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Official statements from Air India and Indian authorities
📞 If you have loved ones aboard Flight AI171:
Please contact Air India Emergency Hotline (number to be released) or check updates at airindia.com
