India Mourns as AI171 Plane Crashes Minutes After Takeoff

India woke to devastating news today as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London, Plane crashed minutes after takeoff, claiming the lives of over 200 people in one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the country’s recent history.

Plane Crashes the Incident

The aircraft took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 5:08 a.m. local time. Within 90 seconds of becoming airborne, the jet struggled to gain altitude, barely reaching 625 feet before veering out of control. At 5:10 a.m., it crashed into the densely populated Meghaninagar area, causing widespread destruction and fires.

Eyewitnesses described a thunderous explosion followed by plumes of black smoke and raging flames. “There was a loud boom, and everything shook. We ran outside and saw fire consuming the buildings,” said a local resident, still trembling hours later.

The Human Cost

Tragically, the crash resulted in the loss of more than 200 lives, including passengers, crew, and at least 15 people on the ground. Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was en route to attend a political summit in London.

Only one survivor, a 10-year-old boy, has been rescued from the wreckage. He remains in critical condition at Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad.

Plane Crashes Investigation and Possible Causes

Preliminary findings from the Air India Flight Data Center suggest a catastrophic failure during ascent. Experts from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are examining several possible factors:

Dual Engine Failure: A rare but plausible event that could render the aircraft powerless.
Bird Strike: Ahmedabad’s proximity to wetlands raises the possibility of birds interfering with engine operation.
Fuel Contamination: There are unconfirmed reports that the aircraft received fuel late last night from a backup source.

Flight AI171 was piloted by Captain Zoya Khan, a seasoned commander with over 14,000 flight hours. Aviation authorities praised her last-second efforts to avoid crashing into a nearby school.

Plane Crashes

Emergency Response on Plane Crashes

Firefighters, NDRF units, and local authorities rushed to the scene, but rescue efforts were severely hampered by the intense blaze fueled by over 125,000 litres of aviation fuel. It took nearly four hours to bring the flames under control. More than 35 people have been injured and are receiving treatment across four hospitals in the city.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered his condolences via social media, promising full support to the affected families.

Plane Crashes Support and Compensation

The Tata Group, which owns Air India, announced immediate compensation of ₹1 crore for each victim’s family. In a press release, Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran stated, “We are devastated by this tragedy. Our prayers are with the families. We will ensure long-term support, including scholarships and medical care, for all dependents.”

The Gujarat government has set up a dedicated helpline and crisis center, while counseling services are being extended to the survivor’s family and other affected citizens.

Plane Crashes Aircraft and Maintenance History

The Dreamliner involved was registered as VT-ANI and was one of Air India’s newer fleet additions, inducted in 2022. It had undergone routine checks just three days prior, with no reported mechanical issues. Boeing has dispatched a team of engineers to assist the AAIB with their investigation and has temporarily grounded all 787s operated by Air India as a precaution.

Public Outcry and Industry Reaction

Public reaction has been marked by grief and anger. Families gathered at the airport demanded answers. Aviation experts are calling for a comprehensive audit of maintenance records and air traffic control logs.

Former DGCA Chief Arun Mishra commented, “While modern jets are incredibly safe, this incident reminds us that aviation demands constant vigilance.”

Plane Crashes Looking Ahead

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on recovery and honoring those lost. A national day of mourning has been declared for June 13, with flags to fly at half-mast. Memorial services are being planned in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and London.

This heartbreaking tragedy is a stark reminder of both the fragility of life and the unyielding need for aviation safety. As India grapples with this immense loss, the collective hope is that answers will be found—and lessons learned.