Air India Flight to London Crashes Into Residential Area Near Ahmedabad Airport

BREAKING: Air India Flight to London Crashes Into Residential Area Near Ahmedabad Airport

Ahmedabad, India – June 12, 2025

Tragedy struck near Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport this morning as Air India Flight AI-181, en route to London Heathrow, crashed into a densely populated residential area shortly after takeoff. The flight was carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew.

What We Know So Far:

The wide-body aircraft, a Boeing 777, took off around 6:20 a.m. local time but reportedly experienced technical difficulties minutes into the flight. Eyewitnesses say they saw the plane “tilting unusually” and “emitting smoke” before it plummeted into the Kalol Nagar neighborhood, approximately 3 kilometers from the runway.

Immediate Aftermath:

• Massive fires erupted upon impact, engulfing several houses and vehicles.

• Local emergency services rushed to the scene, battling flames and attempting to rescue survivors from both the aircraft and the buildings hit.

• At least 40 people on the ground are reported injured, with many feared trapped under debris.

Casualties and Survivors:

As of the latest reports:

• Preliminary figures indicate multiple fatalities among passengers, though exact numbers have not been officially confirmed.

• At least 12 survivors have been pulled from the wreckage and rushed to local hospitals in critical condition.

• Rescue teams are working around the clock, using heavy machinery and sniffer dogs to search for victims.

Official Statements:

Air India has confirmed the crash and said in a brief statement:

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that Flight AI-181, bound for London Heathrow, has been involved in an accident shortly after departure from Ahmedabad. Emergency protocols have been activated. We are cooperating fully with authorities and will provide updates as they become available.”

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered an immediate investigation. A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is en route.

Government Response:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted:

“Deeply distressed by the tragic plane crash near Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the families of those affected. Rescue efforts are underway, and all possible assistance is being extended.”

The Gujarat Chief Minister has declared a state of emergency in the area and has mobilized additional medical and firefighting units.

Eyewitness Accounts:

One local resident, Meena Patel, described the moment of impact:

“There was a loud bang, and within seconds, our building shook. When we ran outside, we saw flames and part of a wing sticking out from a house. It was terrifying.”

Next Steps:

Air India is setting up an emergency helpline for families and is working with British authorities to assist those affected.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.