A Dreamliner crashes into a medical hostel: 242 onboard, only one survivor
A routine departure turns catastrophic
Everything seemed normal on Runway 23 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. At 1:39 PM on June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, began its takeoff with 242 passengers onboard. The liftoff appeared routine, captured by airport CCTV cameras in Ahmedabad.
But within seconds, normality gave way to horror. The aircraft lifted off but failed to gain altitude. It flew too low, too slowly. Instead of climbing, it remained dangerously level above the city before the fatal plunge.
A devastating impact near the airport
In just 30 seconds, the plane crashed into a doctors’ hostel located in the Meghaninagar area, just outside the airport boundary. The impact was catastrophic: flames, thick smoke, and explosions. A building meant for healing became a graveyard of glass, concrete, and ash.
Five people in the hostel were killed instantly. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “hell on Earth.”
A miracle in seat 11A
In the wreckage, emergency responders made a stunning discovery: a man seated in 11A was still alive. Bloodied but conscious, he was rushed to the hospital.
Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed the survival to ANI, but warned that the death toll could riseas rescue operations continue.
The final moments: a Mayday, then silence
Air Traffic Control reported a Mayday call seconds after liftoff — and then, silence. There was no further communication. The aircraft crashed just outside the airport perimeter, making rescue and recovery efforts even more complex.
Experienced crew, unanswered questions
At the controls was Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with over 8,200 flight hours, assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of experience. Both were seasoned pilots. Yet, they were powerless against the unfolding disaster.
A nation in mourning, aid mobilized
Air India confirmed the crash in an official statement, expressing “deep sorrow” and activating a passenger helpline: 1800 5691 444. The Gujarat government deployed three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams with 90 rescuers, while Ahmedabad city police opened an emergency line: 079-25620359.
FAQ
1. What happened to AI-171?
It crashed 30 seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad, hitting a doctors’ hostel.
2. How many people were on board?
242 passengers: 169 Indian, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian.
3. Were there any survivors?
Yes, one passenger in seat 11A was rescued alive.
4. Where did the plane crash?
Into a medical hostel in Meghaninagar, just outside the airport.
5. Were the pilots experienced?
Yes, the captain had 8,200+ flight hours.
6. What caused the crash?
The plane failed to climb properly; exact causes are still under investigation.
7. Was a Mayday sent?
Yes, shortly after takeoff. No further communication followed.
8. Who is coordinating rescue efforts?
Three NDRF teams and Ahmedabad city police.
9. Did Air India respond officially?
Yes, with a public statement and helpline for families.
10. What to do if you know someone onboard?
Call the helplines: Air India (1800 5691 444) or Ahmedabad Police (079-25620359).
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