Air India Flight Crashes Near Ahmedabad Airport, 242 Onboard; Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Among Dead

A UK-bound Air India flight carrying 242 people tragically crashed near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon, claiming several lives, including that of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.

The ill-fated flight, AI171, a Boeing Dreamliner 787, was en route to London Gatwick when it lost contact with air traffic control minutes after takeoff and crashed into the Meghani Nagar area, a densely populated part of Ahmedabad. Rescue operations are currently underway with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rushed in from Gandhinagar.

Initial reports indicate the presence of 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals aboard the aircraft, along with 12 crew members. One injured passenger, seated on 11A, has been admitted to a local hospital. Authorities are still working to confirm the exact number of casualties.

The crash has stunned the nation, particularly with the confirmed death of Vijay Rupani, 68, who served as Gujarat’s Chief Minister from 2016 to 2021. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his grief, saying, “He will be remembered as a grassroots leader who devoted his life to the development and welfare of his state.” Gujarat BJP president C R Patil also confirmed Rupani’s demise.

Eyewitnesses reported a massive explosion followed by thick plumes of smoke and flames. Locals were seen rushing to the site, assisting emergency responders in pulling people from the wreckage.

Air India confirmed the incident in a post on X, stating, “Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident on 12 June 2025.” The airline added that it is working to ascertain full details and will provide updates as the situation develops.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow. President Murmu called the incident a “heart-rending disaster,” while Prime Minister Modi described it as “heartbreaking beyond words.” The PM said he has been in constant touch with key ministers and has directed immediate assistance to be provided.

Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu is en route to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief efforts. Prime Minister Modi has asked to be regularly updated and has assured all necessary support from the Centre.

Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran stated that the airline is coordinating with authorities and will extend all possible help to affected families.

Further details are awaited as authorities work tirelessly to assess the full scope of the tragedy.