More than 200 killed as Air India plane crashes after take-off in Ahmedabad

Published: Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 8:35 am

**Air India Flight to London Crashes After Take-Off, Over 200 Feared Dead**

In a devastating aviation disaster, an Air India flight bound for London crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, India, on Thursday. Authorities report that over 200 people are feared dead, making it the worst aviation accident in the world in a decade. The plane, carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew, crashed into a medical college hostel near the airport.

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was headed for London's Gatwick Airport. The crash occurred during the lunch hour, impacting the hostel's dining area. Initial reports indicate that the plane's tail was lodged on top of the building. Rescue efforts are underway, with authorities recovering bodies from the crash site. DNA samples are being collected to identify the deceased, which may include both passengers and individuals on the ground.

The flight departed from runway 23 at 1:39 p.m. local time and issued a "Mayday" call before losing contact. The aircraft, which first flew in 2013 and was delivered to Air India in 2014, was the first of its kind to be involved in a fatal crash.

The passengers included 217 adults, 11 children, and two infants. Of these, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 were British citizens, seven were Portuguese, and one was Canadian.

The crash has prompted immediate responses from both Indian and international authorities. The Indian Prime Minister has directed support for rescue efforts, and the British government is working with Indian authorities to establish the facts. Boeing and GE Aerospace are also involved, with Boeing stating they are gathering information and GE Aerospace sending a team to analyze cockpit data.

BNN's Perspective: This tragedy underscores the critical importance of aviation safety and the need for thorough investigations to determine the cause of the crash. The loss of life is immense, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected by this devastating event. The swift response from both Indian and international agencies is crucial in providing support and answers during this difficult time.

Keywords: Air India, plane crash, Ahmedabad, London, Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, aviation disaster, Gatwick Airport, India, fatalities, crash investigation, Narendra Modi, Keir Starmer, aviation safety, Mayday, Dreamliner crash, Air India Flight 171

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