Air India Flight AI171 Incident: 241 Affected, One Survivor Confirmed After Aircraft Encounter in Ahmedabad

 Updated: June 13, 2025 | 5 min read

🛫 Air India Flight Bound for London Faces Major Emergency After Takeoff

A major aviation emergency occurred on June 12, 2025, when Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, experienced a critical event shortly after departing Ahmedabad Airport, en route to London Gatwick. The aircraft had 242 individuals on board, including passengers and crew.

Authorities have now confirmed that only one person—a British national—was able to exit the aircraft safely. The rest of the individuals on board and a number of people in the vicinity of the impact zone are being accounted for by emergency teams.

“Our teams are fully mobilized. We are working with international and local agencies to provide clarity, support, and answers,” a senior official from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated.

📍 Incident Site: Residential Area Impacted

The aircraft lost altitude approximately 30 seconds after takeoff, and made contact with a residential zone near Meghani Nagar, not far from B.J. Medical College. Rescue and response efforts began immediately.

Residents in the area described a loud explosion followed by plumes of smoke and debris. Local authorities have since cleared the surrounding area and set up emergency medical tents for nearby civilians.

👤 Survivor’s Account: “I Don’t Know How I Got Out”

The lone confirmed survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, was seated in row 11A and managed to exit the aircraft through a compromised emergency panel.

“I was seated near the front. There was a loud sound and shaking. I ran the moment I could stand,” Ramesh told medical personnel. He is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment for multiple injuries.

Officials say his presence in the front cabin and quick thinking may have contributed to his escape.

🔍 Investigation Underway: Focus on Mechanical Systems

Preliminary radar data shows that the aircraft reached only 625 feet above ground before the incident occurred. Investigators are now focusing on potential engine thrust irregularities or related systems.

India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation, supported by experts from the UK AAIB, US NTSB, and aircraft manufacturer Boeing. One of the aircraft’s black boxes has already been recovered from the site.

“Data will be analyzed thoroughly before conclusions are drawn. The investigation is collaborative and high-priority,” said an AAIB spokesperson.

✈️ Flight and Aircraft Information

Flight Number: AI171
Route: Ahmedabad (India) → London Gatwick (UK)
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (Tail No. VT-ANB)
Onboard: 242 total (230 passengers, 12 crew)
Survivors: 1 confirmed
Ground Impact: Residential area near B.J. Medical College

🇮🇳 🇬🇧 International Response

The flight included passengers from India, the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada, among others. Officials from the UK Foreign Office and the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation have expressed solidarity with the affected families and pledged full transparency throughout the investigation.

UK Prime Minister Rachel Reeves offered her statement:

“Our thoughts are with the families and communities impacted by this incident. We are working closely with the Indian government for a full understanding of what occurred.”

🧭 Aviation Safety and Air India Response

Air India, in a brief public statement, confirmed the incident and is providing support to the families of passengers. The airline has suspended operations of other Boeing 787 aircraft for additional safety checks.

This marks the most serious incident involving an Indian-operated international flight in recent years. Aviation experts say outcomes from the investigation may lead to revised protocols across regional and international carriers.

🔗 Related Articles

Sole Survivor of AI171 Speaks: “Everything Went Dark”
Investigation into AI171: Engine Thrust Concerns Under Review
Emergency Teams Detail First Response at Ahmedabad Site
India Reviews Boeing 787 Operations After Ahmedabad Incident

📌 What Happens Next?

The recovery phase continues, and a full investigation report is expected within 90 days. Both Air India and regulatory authorities have reassured passengers that all findings will be made public, and any necessary policy changes will follow immediately.

This article is based on confirmed information available as of June 13, 2025. Updates will be published as official reports are released.