Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani among those killed in Air India crash, was on his way to London to meet daughter

Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 — Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani died in the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash on Wednesday. He was heading to London to visit his wife and daughter when the plane went down shortly after takeoff.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner had just taken off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Minutes later, it crashed into a medical college hostel in the Meghani Nagar area. The incident killed 241 of the 242 people onboard. It also took the lives of at least 28 people on the ground.

Gujarat Mourns a Respected Leader

Rupani served as Gujarat’s Chief Minister from 2016 to 2021. He earned praise for his calm leadership and focus on development. Even after stepping down, he remained a key figure in state politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Shri Vijay Rupani ji. His contributions to Gujarat and the BJP will always be remembered.”

A Personal Trip Ends in Tragedy

Rupani was flying to London to join his wife and daughter. His wife had already reached the UK a few days earlier. The family planned a quiet celebration.

An airline staff member said Rupani appeared relaxed before boarding. He greeted crew members warmly and looked happy to see his family soon.

He was seated in business class, in seat 2D, when the tragedy struck.

Eyewitnesses Describe the Crash

Flight AI171 took off around 9:10 AM IST. Just moments later, the plane began to descend rapidly. Locals in the Meghani Nagar area saw the aircraft turn sharply before crashing into a building.

Arvind Thakkar, a resident who witnessed the crash, said, “It felt like the plane was trying to come back. Then we heard a loud bang, and the sky filled with smoke.”

The plane hit a hostel building belonging to a medical college. Flames engulfed the structure within seconds. Rescue workers struggled to pull survivors from the wreckage.

Only one person on board survived—a British citizen of Indian origin. He sat near an emergency exit and escaped as fire spread through the cabin.

Investigation Underway

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have launched a full inquiry. They recovered the flight’s black box, which could reveal key information.

Experts from Boeing and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are assisting Indian investigators. The initial focus is on engine performance and flight control systems.

Authorities have not ruled out technical failure. But they have not confirmed any specific cause yet.

Political Leaders Express Grief

The Gujarat government declared a three-day mourning period. All official events are cancelled during this time.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel called Rupani “a mentor and a pillar of strength.” BJP leaders in Gandhinagar lowered the party flag to half-mast. Supporters gathered to light candles and offer prayers.

Opposition leaders also expressed condolences. Rahul Gandhi said, “Despite political differences, Rupani ji served with dedication. My thoughts are with his family.”

Air India Faces Tough Questions

This crash is the first fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 since the model began service in 2011. The loss has raised concerns about the aircraft’s safety and maintenance.

Government officials are considering grounding the airline’s entire Boeing 787 fleet until further checks are complete. Air India, which the Tata Group owns, has pledged full support for the investigation.

The airline set up a helpline for families and promised compensation. Its spokesperson said, “We stand with the families during this difficult time.”

Remembering Vijay Rupani

Rupani was born in 1956 in Rangoon, Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar). His family moved to Rajkot during his childhood. He became active in student politics and joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Later, he rose through the ranks of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Known for his humble nature, Rupani avoided confrontation and preferred consensus.

As Chief Minister, he promoted digital services, healthcare, and industrial development. Even after leaving office in 2021, he continued to work in the public interest.

Friends and colleagues admired his quiet commitment to the people. He also supported charities and educational programs without seeking publicity.

Final Journey Home

The government will fly Rupani’s body back to Rajkot. State officials are planning a funeral with full honors. Thousands are expected to attend, including top leaders from across India.

As Gujarat and the nation mourn his loss, many recall his leadership and the values he stood for. The tragedy highlights how unpredictable life can be, even for someone who led a state.

Arrangements are underway to bring Rupani’s remains back to Rajkot, where a state funeral will be held. Thousands are expected to pay their respects, including senior BJP leaders and Cabinet ministers.

As the nation mourns a political statesman and grapples with the horrors of the air disaster, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility—even for those in the highest echelons of power.