Share via:
Ahmedabad, June 14, 2025 — In a tragic turn of events, an Air India flight bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) early Saturday morning. The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, reportedly lost altitude within minutes of departure and went down in an open field just a few kilometers from the runway.
According to preliminary reports, Flight AI-179, which was carrying 221 passengers and 10 crew members, attempted to return to the airport after reporting technical issues but was unable to make it back safely.
Table of Contents
Toggle🔺 Eyewitness Accounts
Residents in the Hansol and Koteshwar areas near the airport described hearing a loud rumble, followed by a crash and a rising column of black smoke.
“It felt like a mini earthquake. We ran out and saw a huge fire. The plane’s tail section was visible,” said Mahesh Patel, a local shopkeeper near the crash site.
Emergency services, including firefighters, ambulances, and NDRF teams, were rushed to the scene within minutes.
🚑 Rescue & Emergency Response
Authorities have confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing, and several survivors have been pulled from the wreckage. Injured passengers are being transported to Civil Hospital Ahmedabad and Apollo Hospital.
The Gujarat Chief Minister and Union Civil Aviation Ministry have been briefed, and a high-level inquiry has been ordered.
“This is a deeply distressing event. All efforts are being made to rescue survivors and assist affected families,” said Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, in a press statement.
📉 What Went Wrong?
Initial technical data from the flight’s black box and Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications suggest a possible engine malfunction or electrical system failure, but authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause.
Air India, in a short press note, stated:
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and are working closely with aviation authorities. A special helpline has been set up for relatives of passengers onboard AI-179.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are coordinating the investigation.
🛬 About the Flight: AI-179
-
Route: Ahmedabad (AMD) → London Heathrow (LHR)
-
Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
-
Scheduled Departure: 5:30 AM IST
-
Crash Time: Approx. 5:50 AM IST
-
Total People Onboard: 231 (221 passengers + 10 crew)
The aircraft was part of Air India’s newer long-haul fleet and had reportedly undergone regular maintenance checks.
🙏 National & Global Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and posted on social media:
“Deeply pained by the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-179. Prayers for the bereaved families and strength to all those involved in rescue efforts.”
Airlines around the world have extended condolences, and Heathrow Airport officials are coordinating with Indian authorities to assist the families of international passengers.
☎️ Helpline Numbers
Air India has set up emergency contact numbers for families of passengers:
-
Toll-Free (India): 1800-22-7222
-
International: +91-22-227-17155
-
Email: support@airindia.in
📢 What Happens Next?
-
Rescue operations to continue throughout the day.
-
Flight data and cockpit voice recorders will be analyzed.
-
The airport remains operational with restricted airspace around the crash zone.
-
A full press briefing is expected later in the evening by the DGCA and Air India officials.
📝 Conclusion
Today’s crash near Ahmedabad is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the critical importance of air safety protocols. As investigations begin and the nation mourns, the priority remains saving lives and providing clarity to grieving families.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
⚠️ Note: This article is fictional and created solely for illustrative or content demonstration purposes. Please do not circulate as real news.