Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran has confirmed the tragic crash of flight AI-171, a Boeing 787 aircraft operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, which went down shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025. The aircraft, with 242 people on board, crashed outside the airport perimeter minutes after departure.
In a heartfelt official statement, Chandrasekaran said,
“With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight AI-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 further added that the airline’s primary focus is to support those impacted, stating,
“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.”
An emergency centre has been activated, and dedicated support teams are working to aid families seeking information.
Air India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. The airline has committed to sharing updates as verified information becomes available.
The flight was being commanded by Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with 8,200 hours of flying experience, accompanied by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours. A MAYDAY call was received, but contact was lost moments later.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, and the nation mourns one of the most devastating aviation tragedies in recent history.
