The black box comprises two devices - the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR).

The cockpit voice recorder collects radio transmissions and sounds such as the pilot's voices and engine noises, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)'s website. Depending on what happened, investigators may pay close attention to the engine noise, stall warnings and other clicks and pops, the NTSB said. And from those sounds, investigators can often determine engine speed and the failure of some systems.

The flight data recorder monitors a plane's altitude, airspeed and heading, according to the NTSB. Those factors are among at least 88 parameters that newly built planes must monitor.

The Union government is considering grounding the Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 fleet, sources said, a day after one of the aircraft supplied to Air India crashed seconds after taking off from Ahmedabad airport.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson visited the site of the accident in Ahmedabad to review the situation. 

Air India has already deputed 30 technical staff to help at the site of the crash, in which 241 people died. Mr Campbell assured that the airline will continue to help in the recovery and investigation process to the fullest extent.

More heartbreaking stories are emerging a day after a London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad on Thursday, killing 241 people on board.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to the family members of former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was killed in an Air India plane crash on Thursday.

"The mind is not ready to accept that Vijaybhai is no longer among us. I have had a bond with him for years. We worked shoulder to shoulder during many challenging times. Vijaybhai, with his simple and gentle nature, was very hardworking and committed to the party’s ideology. Starting his career in public life as a grassroots worker, he fulfilled various responsibilities in the organisation and went on to become the Chief Minister of Gujarat," PM Modi wrote.

Speaking on the Air India plane crash that killed 241 people, Congress MP Kumari Selja called for an investigation. 

"A daughter of Haryana was among those who died on board the plane that crashed. There should be a proper investigation into the incident," Ms Selja said while extending condolences.

An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (AI171) crashed minutes after take-off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad en route to London on June 12. With 242 people on board - 230 passengers, 10 crew members and two pilots - the aircraft nosedived into a medical college hostel in the city before bursting into a ball of flame. The accident killed 241 people, including both pilots and all crew members on board.
The Pilots

With 8,200 hours of flying experience, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal was a seasoned professional. A resident of Powai, Mumbai, the 50-year-old recently decided to quit flying to take care of his elderly father, a retired DGCA official.

With 1,100 hours of flight experience, 26-year-old Clive Kunder had a promising aviation career ahead. A legacy flyer, his mother once served as an Air India flight attendant. Mr Kunder was remembered as dedicated and enthusiastic. Actor Vikrant Massey, who is Clive Kunder's cousin, publicly mourned the loss, calling it "unimaginably tragic."

Read more about the crew here.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence Friday to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Beijing's state media said, after a London-bound passenger plane crashed in Ahmedabad, killing at least 241 people on board.

Xi also "sent a message of condolence to King Charles III of the United Kingdom over the significant British casualties", state broadcaster CCTV said.

For Bhoomi Chauhan, getting caught in terrible traffic on the roads of Ahmedabad on Thursday proved to be a blessing in disguise. The Bharuch resident had a terrifying near-death experience but escaped after she missed her crucial London-bound flight.

Air India flight AI 171 had crashed seconds after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at around 1.30pm. Of the 242 passengers and crew members on board, only one survived.

"I was getting ready to step out of the airport when I learnt about the crash. I began shivering. My legs started trembling. I felt numb for quite some time," Bhoomi said after she missed the doomed flight.

Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, the 40-year-old British-Indian who miraculously survived the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad yesterday, shared his ordeal with the media today.

On June 12, 2025, that number, in a cruel twist of fate, became the day of his death.

Mr Rupani, 68, was among the 242 people on board Air India Flight AI171, which crashed moments after take-off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport en route to London's Gatwick Airport. He was travelling to London to visit his wife and daughter. He never made it.

The crash occurred on the 12th day of the 6th month - 12/06 - which friends, family, and party colleagues say was a personal emblem for Mr Rupani.

The Air India plane crash on Thursday afternoon, which killed 241 passengers and crew on board, may become India's most expensive aviation claim, with liabilities ranging between $211 million and $280 million, translating to Rs 2,400 crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a review meeting with the officials at the airport in Ahmedabad in the wake of the Air India plane crash.

The bodies of five medical students who died in the Air India tragedy have been handed over to their families. They were having lunch at their hostel mess when the plane came crashing and hit the building. Five died in the incident and dozens were injured. Only one passenger on the plane survived while 241, including passengers and all crew members, died.

Senior BJP leader and former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani died in the Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday, authorities said. He was 68.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani's family.

He also visited the crash site and met the lone survivor and injured medical students at the Civil Hospital. 

Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder were among 241 passengers and crew killed in the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. Together, they had 9,300 hours of flying experience. 

A seasoned pilot, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal had 8,300 hours of flying experience. A resident of Powai, Mr Sabharwal, had reportedly promised his father that he would quit his job and take care of him full time. Mr Sabharwal was single and lived with his nonagenarian father. "Only a few days ago, he told his father that he would be quitting his job to look after him full time," said Shiv Sena lawmaker Dilip Lande, who had come to the Sabharwals' home to condole, reported The Times of India.

Co-pilot and First Officer Clive Kunder had 1,100 hours of flying experience. He, too, comes from a family of aviation enthusiasts, with his mother being a former Air India flight attendant. Mr Kunder's parents are currently in Sydney, visiting their daughter.

According to the National Disaster Response Force's Hariom Gandhi, six teams are currently present at the crash site.

An Indian-origin British national survived the Air India plane crash in Gujarat's Ahmedabad today, officials have said. Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik told news agency ANI that the survivor was a passenger from seat 11A. He has been admitted to a hospital.

The British national, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, was returning to the UK with his brother Ajay Kumar Rakesh, 45, who was in a different row inside the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.

Mr Ramesh told Hindustan Times newspaper that he heard a loud noise about 30 seconds after taking off and the plane crashed. Click here for Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live Updates

"Thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed. It all happened so quickly," he told the newspaper from hospital.

He suffered injuries on his chest. Mr Ramesh has appealed to find his brother.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached the site of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad that killed 241 people on Thursday.

After the horrific crash in Ahmedabad, actor Vikrant Massey has condoled the death of the first officer of the plane, who was the son of his uncle, and the other 240 people feared dead, saying his "heart breaks" for the families. 

Based on an analysis of the video, experts said the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a model that had an immaculate safety record, took off from the runway at Ahmedabad and experienced meagre thrust soon after. 

The pilots, experts said, would have been yanking the yoke at this time in an attempt to gain lift and altitude, and the video shows that the plane's landing gear was also down. 

A "Mayday" call was issued after take-off, indicating the aircraft was in distress. Experts said that as the lift decayed, the pilots must have attempted to pull the nose of the plane up, but it kept descending. 

Based on an analysis of the video, experts said the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a model that had an immaculate safety record, took off from the runway at Ahmedabad and experienced meagre thrust soon after. 

The pilots, experts said, would have been yanking the yoke at this time in an attempt to gain lift and altitude, and the video shows that the plane's landing gear was also down. 

A "Mayday" call was issued after take-off, indicating the aircraft was in distress. Experts said that as the lift decayed, the pilots must have attempted to pull the nose of the plane up, but it kept descending. 

They are on their knees on the floor, frantically flipping through family photo albums. Tears continue to stream down their faces as they search for her picture: Nganthoi Sharma Kongbrailatpam, a crew member on the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed in Ahmedabad shortly after take off.

The plane was headed to Gatwick airport in the UK, Air India said, when it crashed in a civilian area near the airport. 

The family members of 22-year-old Nganthoi, from Awang Leikei of Thoubal district in Manipur, were gathered on the red-tiled floor, consoling each other as they were informed of the crash. "My child, my child, I raised with these hands, where have you gone? I want to see you. Where are you," a woman is heard saying in the video. "Please bring my phone, I need to see her photos. I am going crazy," another woman is heard saying. 

Buried somewhere in the wreckage left behind by the horrific plane crash in Ahmedabad is a phone belonging to a family from Rajasthan. The phone may never end up being found or could have even burned up in the fireball, but a selfie it was used for will live on as a reminder of the tragedy that befell the 242 people who were aboard the aircraft.

The photo marked a new beginning for the family - Komi Vyas, a doctor who worked in a hospital in Udaipur, had quit her job and was moving to join her husband, Dr Prateek Joshi, in London with their three children - and the joy on their faces was palpable. 

The selfie, taken by Dr Joshi on the ill-fated aircraft, shows him and his wife seated on one side, smiling, and their young twin boys and elder daughter sitting across the aisle. The boys try their hardest to smile for the camera, while their elder sister beams. 

In the compound of the Ahmedabad's Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College (BJMC) and Civil Hospital, JCBs moved charred, mangled remains spread over metres of land, now wet and muddy after hours of firefighting. Near a tree that mysteriously survived fire and a rainfall of debris, suitcases were strewn about, while in the mess on the first floor, plates of food remained untouched.

The Air India Ahmedabad-London flight plummeted from a height of 625 feet within seconds of taking off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport. It brushed past one of the six buildings in the hospital compound before crashing and bursting into flames. Of the 242 people on board, only one survived, Air India said in a statement.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed condolences for the victims of the Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad on Thursday which killed over 240 people.

 Describing the tragic incident an unfortunate, Mr Saini said, "This is a matter of investigation."

U.S. officials said on Thursday they have not seen any immediate safety data that would require halting Boeing 787 flights after a fatal Air India accident killed over 240 people.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has recovered 81 bodies from the Ahmedabad plane crash site as operations continue. 

Meanwhile, Air India confirmed in a late-night statement on Thursday that 241 of the 242 passengers and crew aboard its London-bound flight were killed in the crash.

Air India confirmed that 241 of the 242 passengers and crew aboard its London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner were killed when the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport on June 12, 2025. 

The passengers included 169 Indians, 53 Britons, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. 

"We regret to inform that of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities," the airline said in a statement issued late Thursday.

UN chief Antonio Guterres offered condolences to the people of India in wake of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday. 

Mr Guterres said he was "deeply saddened" by the plane crash and offered "heartfelt condolences" to the families and loved ones of all affected.

At least five MBBS students, one PG resident doctor and the wife of a superspecialist doctor of the BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad were killed and over 60 medical students injured when an Air India plane crashed into the college complex.

PM Modi is likely to travel to Ahmedabad tomorrow and visit site of Air India plane crash site, say sources.

Jitender Bhargava, former Executive Director of Air India shared his take on Air India plane that crashed soon after take-off in Ahmedabad.

Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the government has formed a high-level committee which will investigate the Ahmedabad plane crash. He said the aim of the investigation is to find out the causes of the accident and make recommendations to prevent such incidents in future.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has also started a formal investigation into the crash as per the protocol laid down by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), he said.

Amit Shah met the miracle survivor - Viswash Kumar Ramesh - at the Ahmedabad hospital today. He was seating on 11A of the ill-fated Boeing 787 Dreamliner and survived the crash miraculously. There was no official count of those killed even hours after the twin-engine wide bodied aircraft crashed in the city civil hospital and BJ Medical College outside the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport perimeter.

An Indian-origin British national survived the Air India plane crash in Gujarat's Ahmedabad today, officials have said. Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik told news agency ANI that the survivor was found in seat No. 11A.

A miracle survivor Viswash Kumar Ramesh, a British national, was travelling from Diu to London along with his brother. 

A US government agency that investigates civil aviation accidents on Thursday said it would be leading a team of American investigators to India to assist in the investigation of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad.

"It was a horrible accident. Anything we can do, we will do," says Trump on Ahmedabad plane crash

The photo marked a new beginning for the family - Komi Vyas, a doctor who worked in a hospital in Udaipur, had quit her job and was moving to join her husband, Dr Prateek Joshi, in London with their three children - and the joy was palpable.

The temperature soared at such high level in the plane because of the burning fuel that the chance to save anyone was slim, said Amit Shah.

A death count can be given only after DNA test of the families of the passengers on the Air India plane that crashed this afternoon, says Amit Shah.

Amit Shah has expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the plane crash in Ahmedabad.

"There is a possibility of several deaths in the crash," says Amit Shah

Indian Army relief columns from Golden Katar Division were activated and rushed to the Ahmedabad Plane Crash site for assisting civil authorities in disaster relief operations following the crash.

A man on board the London-bound Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad soon after takeoff this afternoon survived the tragedy. Vishwaskumar Ramesh was in 'A11' seat of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner which was carrying 242 passengers and crew. He was travelling to London with his brother.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Ahmedabad hospital where those injured in the plane crash are admitted. At least one passenger has survived the crash. Most of the injured are from a medical college hostel where the plane crashed.

Former Prime Minister of UK Rishi Sunak said he was distressed by the news of plane crash in Ahmedabad.

London's Gatwick airport said it was “liaising closely with Air India” and that staff are setting up a reception centre for relatives of those on board the Air India flight AI171 to provide “information and support.”

In a statement posted on social media, it said the flight, which had more than 240 passengers and crew aboard, was due to land at the airport at 6.25pm local time.

Twenty-two-year-old Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma from Manipur was among the cabin crew of Air India plane that crashed in Ahmedabad today. Her family in Awang Leikei of Thoubal district was in complete shock.

"It was her dream to become airhostess," said her elder sister, adding the airhostess messaged her  informing that she would be flying to London today.

The families of the passengers of the ill-fated Air India plane that crashed in Ahmedabad are undergoing a DNA test to identify the remains of the victims.

In view of the Ahmedabad plane crash, the present Airports Authority of India operation room is being converted as Ministry of Civil Aviation's Joint Operational Control Room to monitor the activities after observing the impact of the crash on civil aviation.

Air India is organizing two relief flights, one each from Delhi and Mumbai, to Ahmedabad for the families of passengers on the crashed plane and Air India staff.

"Family members of passengers and staff in Delhi and Mumbai wanting to travel on these flights can call our hotline on 1800 5691 444. Additionally, those coming in from international destinations and wanting to travel can call our hotline on +91 8062779200," Air India said in a statement.

Details of the flights:

IX1555 – Delhi-Ahmedabad

Time of departure: 2300 hrs on 12 June

IX1556 – Ahmedabad-Delhi

Time of departure: 0110 hrs on 13 June

AI1402 – Mumbai-Ahmedabad

Time of departure: 2300 hrs on 12 June

AI1409 – Ahmedabad-Mumbai

Time of departure: 0115 hrs on 13 June

The Tata Group has announced Rs 1 crore compensation to the families of the each person who lost their life in the tragic crash of  Air India plane in Ahmedabad.

"No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured," said Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran, adding the Tata Group would also help build a new hostel at BJ Medical College as part of its support efforts.

A new video captured by a CCTV camera in Ahmedabad airport shows the Air India plane gaining speed on the runway before taking off, and to the naked eye everything seemed fine, nothing out of the ordinary.

A plane with 242 aboard crashed in Ahmedabad today. The toll has been high for Rajasthan - 11 people from the state were on the flight. Among them were two men who were going to work as chefs in the UK and the son and daughter of a marble trader. There were also a young bride and a doctor setting off to start a new life with her husband and three children in London from Rajasthan.

Khushboo Rajpurohit from a small village Araba in Rajasthan was on the flight to London to join her husband. Her husband is a student in London.

Dr Komi Vyas had recently quit her job to move to London and set up home with her husband so the family could be together.

The plane that crashed soon after taking off from Ahmedabad airport has devastated many families. One of them is Yasha Kamdar of Nagpur. He was going to London with her son Rudra and mother-in-law Raksha Moda. Her father-in-law, who was battling cancer, had recently passed away in London. The entire family had left on an Air India flight to attend his condolence meeting.

A video that shows full sequence of Air India plane's take off before it crashes, turning to a ball of fire has emerged. 

US Secretary Of State Marco Rubio today said that he was heartbroken to hear the news of the aircraft crash in Ahmedabad and that the country is monitoring developments.

Air India's flight AI 171, with more than 242 on board flying to London, crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad this afternoon, in one of the worst aviation disasters in aviation history.

Tata Group will provide Rs 1 crore to the families of each person who has lost their life in a plane crash in Ahmedabad, it said.

"We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support. Additionally, we will provide support in the building up of the B J Medical's hostel," a statement from N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons read.

"We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time," it read.

Campbell Wilson, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Air India expressed "deep sorrow" after London-bound Air India plane crashed soon after take-off. 

"This is a difficult day for all of us at Air India. And our efforts are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, their families and loved ones.  

He further briefed on the "serious incident" involving Air India and assured that the company is working with the authorities on all emergency response efforts.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu is in Ahmedabad, taking stock of the situation after Air India plane crashed. Calling it a "tragic" and "horrific" incident, Mr Naidu said he is "in a state of shock." 

"Very sad to know that Vijay Rupani ji was also there, and so were other nationals. Each and every life is precious to us. Each and everyone is very important person to us. It is an incident which has shaken the nation," he said speaking to the reporters.

"We are going to do a fair and thorough investigation. We will not spare anyone. We will not leave any stone unturned," he added.

Two additional helpline numbers have been activated for passenger assistance, shared Airports Authority of India.

"Passengers may contact the following numbers for any queries or support: 079-29900291 | 079-29900391," the statement read.

The Ahmedabad airport on Thursday resumed operations with limited flights after a brief halt following the crash of an Air India's London-bound passenger aircraft.

"Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is now operational with limited flights," a spokesperson of the airport said.

Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport, the airport said in its latest advisory.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu arrives at the Air India plane crash site to take stock of the situation.

He is reviewing the ongoing rescue and relief operations, and coordinating with officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Authority of India (AAI), Air India, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the local administration to ensure all necessary support is being provided.

BJP's Vijay Rupani, a former Chief Minister of Gujarat, was among the passengers on the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed shortly after take-off from the Ahmedabad airport.

According to seat chart, Vijay Rupani, 68, was on seat 2D of the Air India flight. He was on his way to London to meet his daughter.

All patients who have been part of the plane crash including the medical residents, students, and doctors will be treated free at KD Hospital in Ahmedabad.

Among 230 passengers on Air India flight that crashed soon after take-off was Khushboo Rajpurohit, a bride on way to London to meet her husband.

Khushboo, a resident of Araba village in Rajasthan's Balotara district, had got married to Manfool Singh in January this year. Her husband is a student in London and she was about to meet him for the first time since the wedding.

Khushboo was the daughter of Madan Singh Rajpurohit, a resident of Araba.

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said he is "deeply saddened by the tragic Air India plane crash" in Ahmedabad earlier today. Mr Wong extended condolences and said Singapore stands in solidarity with India and all those affected.

"The loss of so many lives is heartbreaking. We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the people of India in this time of sorrow," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered “deepest condolences” to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the plane crash. "Please accept the deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad. Kindly convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and near ones of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe," President Putin said in his message.

An Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was headed to London Gatwick with 242 people on board.

Moments after lift-off, the pilot issued a "Mayday" call before the aircraft plummeted into a residential area, triggering a massive explosion and fire.

India has witnessed several tragic aviation disasters over the decades. .

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said the "country is grieving today" as London bound Air India flight crashed soon after it departed from Ahmedabad airport.

"May those who lost their lives rest in peace and their families get the strength to bear the loss... I have cancelled all the programmes in Rajasthan and we stand with the families of the bereaved," he said

The Royal Family shared a statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing grief over the Air India plane crash. British King Charles III said he and Queen Camilla are "desperately shocked by the terrible events" in Ahmedabad.

PTI"My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones. I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time," the statement read.

Shares of plane maker Boeing slid in premarket US trading on Thursday after an Air India aircraft with 242 people on board crashed near the airport in Ahmedabad.  Boeing shares fell 7.8% to $197.3 in premarket trading.

Alia Bhatt expressed condolences on the Ahmedabad plane crash. Sharing the news on Instagram, she wrote, "This is devastating! My heart aches for all the passengers and crew... thoughts and prayers with everyone on board and their loved ones." 

A London-bound Air India plane with 242 people aboard crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad on Thursday. A passenger who was allegedly on the "same flight", two hours before it took off from Ahmedabad, has spoken out about his in-flight experience. The passenger took the flight from Delhi to Ahmedabad.

"I was in the same damn flight 2 hours before it took off from AMD. I came in this from DEL-AMD. Noticed unusual things in the place," he said.

On his X handle, Mr Vatsha shared several photos of the plane and a video, where he talked about the non-functioning in-flight entertainment and other services.Mr Vatsa also said that the flight number got changed, so "the passengers with a connecting flight to London had to deboard, come to the departure gate and had to board again".

Indian Army teams comprising approximately 130 personnel have been deployed to assist civil administration in the ongoing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts following the crash of an Air India flight near Ahmedabad.

The Indian Army's response includes engineering teams with JCBs for debris clearance, medical teams comprising doctors and paramedics, Quick Action Teams (QATs), fire-fighting assets with fire extinguishers and water bowsers, and provost staff for site management.

The Military Hospital has also been placed on standby.

Ukraine's Zelensky said, "Horrible news of a passenger plane crash in India. My deepest condolences to Prime Minister @narendramodi and the entire people of India on this tragic day. Our thoughts are with all victims' relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We share your shock and grief on this tragic day. We all pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish a speedy recovery to those injured."

Ramila, the mother of one of the medical students who was present at the hostel at the time of the crash, said her son was on a lunch break. He jumped from the second floor of the building to save himself.

"My son had gone to the hostel during lunch break, and the plane crashed there. My son is safe, and I have spoken to him. He jumped from the second floor, so he suffered some injuries," Ramila, who reached the civil hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat said while speaking to the news agency ANI.

"The news of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad is absolutely devastating. In this time of tragedy, Australia's thoughts are with everyone affected. Our government is receiving regular updates and we will continue to monitor the situation closely," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese posted on X.

Shares of planemaker Boeing slid in premarket US trading on Thursday after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with more than 200 people crashed near Ahmedabad airport. The plane was headed to Gatwick airport in the UK, Air India said, while police officers said it crashed in a civilian area near the airport.

London-based yoga enthusiast Jamie Meek had concluded his Gujarat visit and was reminiscing his "mind-blowing" memories in India, as he prepared to return home. In a post on Instagram, he recalled the "magical experience" that he shared with his partner, Fiongal Greenlaw-Meek, and rued that it was their "last night in India". Read here

The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement on the Ahmedabad plane crash, said a "lot of people" have died in the incident.

"We extend deepest condolences to families who lost their loved ones. Believe lots of foreigners were on the flight. That's the latest we can share," it said.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad is "heartbreaking", and expressed grief.

"My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss. We share your pain. Dear @narendramodi, Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow," she said.

All the flight operations at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad have resumed.

The tragic incident of a plane crash in Ahmedabad has left the Indian sports fraternity deeply shocked and anguished as the sportsperson expressed their thoughts and prayers for the passengers, crew & their families.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took to X to express his grief over the deadly incident. "I am utterly shocked and deeply anguished to learn about the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and their families who are enduring unimaginable pain and loss.

"In moments like these, words feel so inadequate, but I hope that those affected find strength, courage, and support. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this tragedy," he shared.

Two-time Olympic medallist shuttler P V Sindhu said, "Deeply saddened by the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London today, June 12, 2025. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of all 242 souls on board. May love surround every grieving heart and strength find those left behind."

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla also extended his thoughts and prayers, saying, "Deeply shocked & heartbroken to learn about the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the passengers, crew & their families as they face this unimaginable tragedy. In times like these, our hearts must come together in compassion for all who are suffering."

Boeing says 'working to gather more information' after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with 242 people on board crashed immediately after take-off from Ahmedabad airport.

Horrifying visuals from the hostel of Ahmedabad's BJ Medical College, into which an Air India flight with 242 people onboard crashed this afternoon, show plates of food left uneaten, suggesting that the aircraft hit the building when the students were having their lunch.

AI-171, which was flying to London, crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad. The pilots had sent a Mayday call shortly after take-off. A minute later, the plane turned into a fireball and crashed into a hostel of the government-run medical college. 

An investigation is underway to find out what led to the tragedy. Rescue efforts are on and more information will be available shortly. Air India has set up a dedicated hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide information about the incident.

Air India has said in a statement that the crash took place shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad at 1.38 pm. "Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals," the airline has said.

"The plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is extremely sad and heart-wrenching. My condolences to the families of all the passengers and crew members," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said in a post on X.

Five students died, many injured at medical students' hostel in Ahmedabad where Air India plane crashed, officials said. Out of the five, four students are undergraduates and one is a post-graduate student. 

Aviation ministry helpline numbers:

011-24610843 | 9650391859 

Air India helpline number:

1800 5691 444

A bird hit may have prevented the Air India flight, which crashed near Ahmedabad airport, from achieving the optimum speed for take-off, leading to the crash, experts have told NDTV.

Air India flight 171 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick airport in London crashed around 1.30 pm on Thursday, shortly after taking off. There were 242 people on board - 230 passengers, 10 crew members and two pilots - the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.

Captain Saurabh Bhatnagar, former senior pilot, said, "It looks, prima facie, like a case of multiple bird hits wherein both the engines have lost power. The take-off was perfect and just, I believe, short of taking the gear up, the aircraft started descending, which can happen only in case the engine loses power or the aircraft stops developing lift. Obviously, the investigation will reveal the exact reason."

"From the footage, it seems that the take-off was uneventful. The aircraft came down in a controlled fashion. The pilot had given the Mayday call, which means that it was a distress situation," he stressed. READ MORE HERE

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed grief over the horrific plane crash in Ahmedabad.

"Deeply shocked by the horrifying crash of Air India Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad with 242 people on board. My thoughts are with everyone affected and the families of those on board. Hoping every possible effort is underway for rescue and relief," he said.

Jamie Ray Meek, a British citizen listed as a passenger on Air India Flight 171, shared a final Instagram story shortly before takeoff.

What went wrong with Air India plane? A video analysis of its final moments before crash.

An Air India flight crashed minutes after taking off from Gujarat's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

A 17-second video shows the aircraft crashing into a residential area, shortly after it took off for London Gatwick at around 1.30pm. Visuals also showed thick black smoke rising up into the sky from the airport. 

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), a "Mayday" distress call was issued by AI 171 after takeoff but the flight did not receive any response from the Air Traffic Control (ATC).

A "Mayday" call is an emergency procedure used internationally as a distress signal through radio communications; it signals a life-threatening emergency. 

"The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time," Mr Starmer said in a post on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad today, saying it is "heartbreaking beyond words".

"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," he wrote in a post on X.

CISF personnel are engaged in rescue operations at the Air India plane crash site.

The 242 passengers and crew members onboard the Ahmedabad-London Air India flight, which crashed this afternoon shortly after take-off, included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals and a Canadian citizen. Rescue efforts are currently underway and more information on the tragedy is expected shortly.

Air India has said in a statement that the crash took place shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad at 1.38 pm. "Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals," the airline has said.

The UK High Commission said that it is aware that a flight from Ahmedabad to London has crashed near Ahmedabad airport. "We are working with local authorities to urgently establish the facts and provide support. Our thoughts are with all those affected," it said in a statement. 

There were 53 British nationals onboard.

Shortly after the plane crash with 242 people onboard, Air India changed its profile picture to a black colour.

An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, flying from Ahmedabad to London with 242 on board, crashed today shortly after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

A video showed the aircraft struggling to gain altitude after takeoff and crashing in a residential area, followed by a huge fireball. The plane flew for about five minutes before it crashed at 1.38 pm.

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport said the airport is currently not operational and all flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice.

The Air India plane, carrying 242 passengers, crashed on students' hostel of the BJ medical college in Ahmedabad.

In light of the AI171 crash, an Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry of Civil Aviation to coordinate all details.

Contact: 011-24610843 | 9650391859

Medical team and rescue personnel of Indian Armed forces deployed for rescue ops post the Air India accident at Ahmedabad Airport.

Indian Railways will run special Vande Bharat trains for the passengers stranded in Ahmedabad. The number is not decided yet but as many trains required will operate, the Railways said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that he is "pained beyond words" over the plane crash at Ahmedabad airport.

"Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed to the crash site. Spoke with the Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police Ahmedabad to assess the situation," he said on X.

Mr Shah will be leaving for Ahmedabad shortly.

Air India has issued a helpline number for passengers' families to locate them: 1800 5691 444

"I appeal to all BJP workers to engage in relief and rescue operations and provide all possible help to the affected families. I pray to God to give strength to the bereaved families to bear the unbearable pain and to provide speedy recovery to the injured," he said.

Air India, in a statement, confirmed that there were 242 passengers on the crashed Air India flight. Out of the total, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese, and one Canadian.

"The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals," it said.

Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani reacting to the Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad airport said, "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground."

The signal from the aircraft was lost at 08:08 UTC (13:38 local time) at 625 feet, less than a minute after take off.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Rammohan Naidu, and took stock of the Air India flight crash incident in Ahmedabad.

The Minister informed the Prime Minister that he is rushing to Ahmedabad to oversee rescue and relief operations on the ground. The Prime Minister has directed Mr Naidu to ensure all necessary support is extended immediately and asked to be kept regularly updated on the situation.

All relevant agencies are on high alert, and coordinated efforts are underway.

Initial ADS-B data from flight AI171 shows that the aircraft reached a maximum barometric altitude of 625 feet (airport altitude is about 200 feet) and then it started to descend with a vertical speed of -475 feet per minute.

A Mayday call was issued by Air India's AI 171 flight, minutes before it crashed at Ahmedabad after takeoff for London on Thursday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has said in a statement.

DGCA Statement:

Aircraft: #Boeing787, Registration VT-ANB

Operator: Air India

Flight Number: AI-171 (Ahmedabad to Gatwick)

Location: Crashed immediately after takeoff from Runway 23, Ahmedabad

Onboard Details

Total persons on board: 242

Pilots: 2

Cabin crew: 10

Passengers: 230

Captain: Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal (LTC, 8,200 hrs experience)

First Officer: Clive Kundar (1,100 hrs experience)

Timeline of Events

Departure: 13:39 IST from Ahmedabad Runway 23

Mayday Call: Issued shortly after takeoff

Crash Site: Outside airport perimeter, immediately after departure

ATC Communication: No response post Mayday

Visuals: Thick black smoke observed at crash location

Preliminary Status

No confirmed cause yet

Investigation initiated

Rescue and recovery operations underway

Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, who was in Vijayawada attending the first anniversary events of the NDA Government, rushed to Ahmedabad immediately upon receiving news of the flight crash.

Treating the incident with utmost urgency, the Minister cut short his engagements and is now en route to personally oversee the situation on the ground, a statement from his office said.

He is in constant contact with senior officials from DGCA, AAI, NDRF, and the Gujarat State administration to ensure swift, coordinated response and support.

Rescue and medical teams are on site. Passenger safety and emergency response remain the highest priorities, it said.

Air India Chairman N Chadrasekaran, in a statement, confirmed the plane crash near Ahmedabad Airport. 

"With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event," he said.

"At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information," he added.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reacted to the Ahmedabad plane crash, saying, "Stunned and profoundly shocked to know of the most tragic Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad today. It is a most sad news for all of us and I convey my condolences to victim families, even while we anxiously wait for survivors details and pray for survival of all."  

She added, "The crash during take-off of the London-bound plane  has shaken and saddened me at my core. While we do not know exact figures, media reports indicate that there were 242 passengers in the plane. I am praying to God at this moment."

The Air India flight fell from a height of 825 feet, crashed with a ball of flame, officials said.

1. Thick plumes of smoke can be seen at the airport. 

2. The flight crashed minutes after takeoff. The flight took off at 1:17 pm today. 

3. The plane reportedly crashed from an altitude of 825 feet.

4. Several leading up to the airport have been closed.

5. Emergency services have kicked in, with fire brigade and medical teams rushing to the airport for rescue work.

6. At least 242 passengers were on board the crashed plane. 

7. "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," Air India said in a statement. 

Aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu reacted to the Ahmedabad plane crash, saying officials are on "highest alert".

"Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site," he wrote in a post on X.

He added, "My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families."

Air India AI171 flight - Ahmedabad to Gatwick

Capacity:

238 (economy)

18 (business class)

Air India has confirmed the plane crash in Ahmedabad today.

"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," they said in a post on X.

An Air India flight crashed minutes after taking off from Gujarat's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

The flight that was travelling to London had 242 passengers on board, sources said.

Visuals from the crash showed thick plumes of smoke at the airport. 

The rescue operations are underway after an Air India plane crashed near Ahmedabad airport today. At least a dozen ambulances have arrived. The police have diverted traffic from the area.

A plane has crashed near Ahmedabad airport, officials said. Visuals from the site show a thick plume of grey smoking rising from the ground. The incident took place between 1 pm and 2 pm. 

More details are awaited.