Update: Air India Ahmedabad-London flight crash – 241 confirmed fatalities, one survivor

Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes

An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday, June 12.

The London-bound aircraft, crashed into the Meghani area of Ahmedabad in the Indian state of Gujarat, sending up spirals of black smoke and setting off an emergency rescue response.

According to a Times of India report, the aircraft was carrying 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers, 10 crew and 2 pilots.

According to an Economic Times report, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation shared that the aircraft was under the command of captain Sumeet Sabharwal with first officer Clive Kundar.

According to reports, the aircraft was heavily fuelled for the long-haul trip which could have intensified the explosion and fire following the crash.

241 fatalities reported in Air India crash

Air India has since confirmed that of the 242 passengers onboard, there were 241 confirmed fatalities, with a sole survivor. The airline also said that a special team of caregivers from Air India was in Ahmedabad to provide support to ita teams on ground. The airline said it was working with local authorities to provide necessary assistance and are extending full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident.

The passengers comprised 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals and 1 Canadian national. The survivor is a British national of Indian origin.

UPDATE: Air India confirms that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on 12 June 2025, was involved in an accident.

The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew.

The aircraft crashed shortly…

— Air India (@airindia) June 12, 2025

Air India crash confirmed by Tata Group

The crash was confirmed by owners of the carrier, Tata Group, on social media platform, X on June 12.

With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.
At this moment, our…

— Tata Group (@TataCompanies) June 12, 2025

India’s Prime Minster Narendra Modi also tweeted, expressing his sadness and shock in a tweet.

The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed shock over the accident, posting on social media platform, X.

Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad.

We are on highest alert. 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…

— Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu (@RamMNK) June 12, 2025