Ahmedabad plane crash: Boeing 787-8 aircraft’s black box retrieved, PM Modi reviews situation — all you need to know
India is reeling from a tragic aviation disaster. On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad. The horrifying event killed almost everyone on board and several on the ground. It has become the deadliest single-aircraft crash in Indian history.
What Happened?
Flight AI 171 took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM. The plane was headed to London Gatwick. Within 30 seconds, the pilot issued a “Mayday” distress call. The aircraft lost altitude and crashed into the Meghani Nagar area. It struck the B.J. Medical College hostel complex.
Eyewitnesses heard a loud explosion and saw flames and smoke. Chaos erupted in the neighborhood as people rushed to help. Emergency teams arrived quickly to control the fire and start rescue efforts.
The aircraft carried 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Tragically, 241 people died. Only one person survived—40-year-old British-Indian Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. He crawled from the wreckage and was later rescued.
The crash also caused destruction on the ground. At least 28 people, including students and doctors’ families, lost their lives. Dozens more suffered burns and injuries.
Black Box Recovered
Investigators found one of the plane’s black boxes more than 24 hours after the crash. It was lodged in rooftop debris. The recovered device holds critical data: flight movements and cockpit audio. Officials believe it will help explain what went wrong.
Search teams are still looking for the second recorder. Even so, the data they have should provide key insights. Experts suspect a mechanical failure. The early distress signal supports that theory.
PM Modi Visits Crash Site
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Ahmedabad the next day. He toured the crash site and met survivors and emergency workers. At Civil Hospital, he spoke with the injured and medical staff.
Modi called the crash “heartbreaking beyond words.” He promised full government support for relief efforts and families of the victims. He also announced compensation for the deceased and the injured.
During a review meeting, Modi urged officials to act swiftly. He stressed the need for a thorough investigation and stronger aviation safety.
Global and National Reactions
The crash shocked the entire country. It’s the worst aviation tragedy in recent memory. The use of a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—a modern, reliable aircraft—has raised serious concerns.
International aviation bodies are involved in the investigation. These include the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and Boeing itself. All are working with Indian authorities to find answers.
This was the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 since its launch in 2009. Following the incident, some countries have started reviewing their Dreamliner operations.
Mourning and Grief
Families of the victims are mourning deeply. Hospitals and morgues are full. Officials are helping families identify loved ones and arrange final rites.
Notable public figures also died in the crash. Among them was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. His passing has added to the public sorrow.
Condolences have come from around the world. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, King Charles III, Pope Francis, and other global leaders have expressed sympathy. Flags flew at half-mast in Gujarat on June 13 as a mark of respect.
Next Steps
The black box will be analyzed in the coming days. It will reveal flight data, cockpit communication, and technical conditions. The full investigation may take months, but a preliminary report is expected soon.
Authorities have promised transparency. Safety experts will examine aircraft maintenance records and interview the sole survivor and witnesses. The Indian government may also review Boeing 787 operations nationwide.
Immediate priorities include:
- Identifying the crash cause
- Improving emergency response systems
- Reviewing pilot training and aircraft maintenance
- Strengthening airport departure protocols
Final Thoughts
The Ahmedabad crash has left a deep scar on the nation. It has reminded us of the fragility of life and the need for strict aviation safety. Families are mourning, a city is healing, and the country is watching closely.
As rescue and investigation teams work tirelessly, one thing is clear: this tragedy demands answers, accountability, and action.
