Breaking News: Air India Ahmedabad–London Flight Crashes Near Airport
Ahmedabad, India – June 13, 2025
A tragic aviation disaster struck earlier today as Air India Flight AI-147, en route from Ahmedabad to London Heathrow, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the crash site located approximately 6 kilometers northeast of the airport perimeter, in a sparsely populated area near the village of Hansol.
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Flight Details and Timeline
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner took off at approximately 10:04 AM IST, carrying 243 passengers and 12 crew members. According to preliminary reports from Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft lost radio contact within minutes of takeoff, followed by a sharp descent captured on radar. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke trailing from the aircraft before it plunged and burst into flames upon impact.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Officials from the Gujarat State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have confirmed significant casualties, although an official death toll has not yet been released. Rescue operations are ongoing, with firefighters, medical personnel, and security forces on the scene.
“We are doing everything possible to rescue survivors and control the situation,” said Ahmedabad Commissioner of Police G.S. Malik, addressing the press. “Several injured passengers have been airlifted to nearby hospitals, including Civil Hospital and Sterling Hospital.”
Air India Responds
Air India released an official statement:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that Flight AI-147 from Ahmedabad to London was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their families. We are working closely with local authorities and have launched an emergency helpline for relatives seeking information.”
Emergency contact numbers have been set up for relatives in India and the United Kingdom. The airline has also dispatched a special team of counselors and support staff to Ahmedabad and London.
Investigation Underway
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have begun a formal inquiry into the incident. The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) have been recovered and are being analyzed.
Sources close to the investigation suggest the possibility of engine malfunction or a bird strike, but no official cause has been confirmed.
Global Reactions and Flight Cancellations
In light of the incident, Air India has temporarily suspended all outgoing long-haul flights from Ahmedabad. Aviation authorities in the UK and EU have also issued precautionary alerts to monitor incoming aircraft from the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via social media:
“Deeply anguished by the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-147. My thoughts are with the families of those affected. We are coordinating all rescue and relief efforts at the highest level.”
Public Assistance and Relief
Local NGOs and volunteer groups have mobilized to assist in relief efforts, offering blood donations, food supplies, and transportation for families of victims. Ahmedabad airport has set up a temporary crisis management center with translators, medical staff, and psychological support professionals.
