A tragic air disaster has occurred in India, prompting global mourning and a heartfelt message from King Charles III. On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad, Gujarat to London Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the confirmed deaths of over 200 people.
The crash, which took place in a residential area near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, marks one of the most devastating aviation tragedies in recent years. British, Indian, and international leaders have offered their condolences to the victims and their families, while investigations into the cause are now underway.
Official Statement from King Charles III
Following confirmation of the incident, Buckingham Palace issued a statement from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with those affected by the crash. The King offered prayers and condolences on behalf of the British people and praised emergency responders for their courage and commitment in managing the aftermath.
This message of support reflects the close ties between the United Kingdom and India, two Commonwealth nations with long-standing diplomatic and cultural relations.
Source: The Royal Household – royal.uk
Details of the Air India Flight AI171 Crash
According to Air India and Indian civil aviation authorities, Flight AI171 departed Ahmedabad at approximately 1:38 PM IST. The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people, including 10 crew members.
The airline confirmed the nationalities of passengers as follows:
- 169 Indian citizens
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
- Remaining passengers include dual citizens and individuals from other countries.
Moments after takeoff, the aircraft reportedly encountered technical difficulties and lost altitude rapidly. It crashed into a residential zone close to the airport, impacting a government hospital hostel that accommodates medical students and junior doctors.
Sources: Air India Official X Account, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, India
Casualty Reports and Emergency Response
Local authorities in Ahmedabad, including the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority, confirmed the recovery of 204 bodies from the crash site as of June 13. Rescue workers continue to search through the debris for potential survivors or unaccounted individuals.
At least 50 people, including medical students present at the hospital hostel during the crash, were injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Some remain in critical condition, according to doctors at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.
The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) reported that five students remain missing, and several family members of doctors are still unaccounted for.
Sources:
- BBC News – India Plane Crash
- FAIMA – Official Statement
Air India’s Public Response
Air India, India’s national carrier, promptly released a series of updates across official social media platforms. The airline confirmed the crash and announced that it is fully cooperating with aviation authorities and local emergency services.
Two dedicated hotline numbers were launched:
- Domestic inquiries: 1800 5691 444
- International callers: +91 8062779200
In a public video message, Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, conveyed sorrow over the incident. He emphasized that the airline’s top priority is to support survivors, families of victims, and affected communities.
Air India has dispatched a special assistance team to Ahmedabad to help coordinate on-ground relief efforts and provide emotional and logistical support to grieving families.
Source: Air India Media Centre
Boeing’s Response and Investigation Updates
Aircraft manufacturer Boeing confirmed that it is actively working with both Air India and the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to support the ongoing investigation. In a brief press statement, Boeing extended condolences to those affected and committed to transparency throughout the inquiry.
Aviation experts are currently examining potential causes of the crash, including possible mechanical failure, flight control malfunction, or human error. As of now, there is no confirmed cause of the crash, and all discussions remain preliminary.
Source: Boeing Newsroom
Eyewitness Accounts and Local Impact
Local residents described a terrifying scene, as the aircraft struck a multi-story building and exploded upon impact. Witnesses, including public officials and hospital staff, helped evacuate trapped individuals from the crash zone.
Darshna Vaghela, a local official, told reporters that she and her team assisted in rescuing several doctors from their flats inside the hostel. Dozens of volunteers from nearby neighborhoods also joined emergency personnel in offering aid.
One survivor, whose story was verified by ANI News and BBC, recounted escaping from the second floor by jumping through a window after the crash shook the building.
Sources:
- BBC India
- Asian News International (ANI)
International Condolences and Global Reaction
Global leaders, including those from the United Nations, Canada, Portugal, and the European Union, have extended their sympathies to the people of India and the families of foreign nationals affected.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it is working with Indian authorities and British consular officials to assist British nationals and their families. Emergency contacts have been made available for concerned relatives.
Source: UK Government – FCDO
A History of Aviation Safety in India
This tragic event marks India’s deadliest aviation disaster since August 2020, when an Air India Express flight from Dubai to Kozhikode overshot the runway and crashed during heavy rain. That incident resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers, including both pilots.
India’s civil aviation sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, with stringent safety oversight from the DGCA and international partners. However, the growing traffic and fleet sizes have underscored the importance of continual infrastructure and emergency response improvements.
Sources:
- DGCA India Annual Report
- ICAO Aviation Safety Reports
Conclusion: A Nation in Mourning, A Global Response
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 represents an immense human tragedy, with hundreds of lives lost or affected across multiple countries. As rescue and identification efforts continue, governments, aid agencies, and airline officials are working to provide clarity, comfort, and support.
King Charles III’s statement, echoed by world leaders, reinforces the global sense of compassion and unity during this time of sorrow. While the investigation into the cause remains ongoing, the priority now lies in caring for survivors, assisting grieving families, and preventing future tragedies through lessons learned.
Verified Sources:
- Royal.uk – Statement by King Charles III
- BBC News – India
- Air India Media Center
- Boeing Newsroom
- DGCA India
- UK FCDO Travel Advice
