Ahmedabad Air India Crash: 260 Feared Dead as India, UK, US Launch Joint Probe

 India has launched a full-scale investigation into one of its deadliest aviation disasters after Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing an estimated 260 people, including passengers, crew, and individuals on the ground.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London Gatwick, crashed just 33 seconds after liftoff on June 12, slamming into a nearby medical college hostel, igniting a massive fireball. The crash claimed almost all lives onboard, with only one survivor confirmed from the 242 people aboard—230 passengers and 12 crew.

The impact also caused devastation on the ground, with at least 50 students in the hostel reported injured. Ahmedabad Inspector General Vidhi Chaudhary confirmed the preliminary death toll at 260, surpassing the official onboard count.

India Leads Probe, US and UK Join Investigation

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India, under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, has formally begun its inquiry into the crash. In an international collaboration, the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority have dispatched teams to assist.

“This is among the worst air disasters in Indian history,” an AAIB spokesperson said. “We are working closely with international partners to uncover all possible causes.”

NDRF Intensifies Rescue Operations

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed seven teams to the crash site. NDRF Inspector Vinay Kumar reported that 81 bodies have been recovered so far from the charred wreckage and building debris.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and horror, with black smoke engulfing the area and explosions heard minutes after the crash.

PM Modi, HM Amit Shah Review Response on Ground

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site in Ahmedabad on Friday morning, meeting with survivors and emergency personnel. Expressing deep grief, he vowed full support for relief operations and victim families.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting in Ahmedabad with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Ministers CR Patil, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, and MoS Muralidhar Mohol. Shah instructed officials to ensure swift DNA identification, timely repatriation of remains, and coordinated support for the bereaved families.

Compensation and Helplines Announced

Air India, now owned by the Tata Group, has announced a ₹1 crore compensation for the family of each deceased individual. Dedicated helplines have also been activated:

• India toll-free: 1800 5691 444

• International: +91 8062779200

Prominent Personalities Among Victims

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, a senior BJP leader, was among the passengers confirmed dead. His passing has led to widespread mourning across the political spectrum.

The flight carried 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian national, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

International Reactions and Solidarity

US President Donald Trump expressed condolences, calling the crash “terrible and horrific” and pledged full support to India in recovery and investigation efforts. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also extended sympathies, confirming that a British investigation team is now on-site.

Government Forms High-Level Aviation Safety Committee

The Indian government has announced the formation of a multi-disciplinary high-level committee to examine the incident and recommend systemic changes to strengthen aviation safety.

As families await identification of victims and clarity on the cause, global aviation authorities and investigators are working round-the-clock to determine what led to this devastating tragedy. The black box has been located and is expected to offer critical insights.