Air India Flight With 242 Passengers Crashes Near Ahmedabad Airport; Rescue Operations Underway
A London-bound Air India aircraft carrying 242 passengers crashed in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, prompting immediate rescue and emergency response operations. The incident occurred in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport, according to the State Police Control Room.;
A London-bound Air India aircraft carrying 242 passengers crashed in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, prompting immediate rescue and emergency response operations. The incident occurred in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport, according to the State Police Control Room.
Fire Breaks Out After Crash
The aircraft caught fire following the crash, with fire tenders immediately rushed to the scene to control the blaze. Fire officer Jayesh Khadia confirmed that firefighting operations were underway to douse the flames that erupted after impact.
"A plane crashed in the Meghaninagar area near the airport. It is not yet clear what type of plane it was," said Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik, speaking to a news agency.
Air India Confirms Incident
Air India issued an initial statement acknowledging the crash involving Flight AI171, which was operating the Ahmedabad-London Gatwick route.
"Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest," the airline said in its official statement.
Central Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been actively monitoring the situation, having spoken directly with Gujarat Chief Minister, the state Home Minister, and Police Commissioner regarding the aircraft crash. Shah assured that the Central government would provide all necessary assistance for rescue and relief operations.
Emergency teams and firefighters have been immediately dispatched to the crash site to begin comprehensive rescue and containment efforts.
Public Safety Measures
Authorities have issued urgent advisories asking the public to avoid the crash area as emergency operations continue. The ongoing rescue efforts require clear access for emergency vehicles and personnel.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing heavy smoke billowing from the crash site, visible from several kilometres away, including areas as far as Vastrapur. The sudden incident has caused considerable alarm among local residents in the vicinity.
Ongoing Investigation
Details about the cause of the crash remain unclear as authorities work to assess the situation and coordinate rescue operations. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available from official sources.
The crash has prompted immediate mobilization of emergency services, with rescue teams working to address the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the incident.