Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Investigation & Victim Identification Updates
An Air India flight AI‑171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed into a residential area near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad just seconds after taking off on June 12, 2025. The Dreamliner plummeted around 625 ft, struck the BJ Medical College hostel in Meghaninagar, and erupted into flames. Here are more updates we received since the crash:
Investigation Advances
Authorities confirm that 32 victims have been identified via DNA analysis, with 14 sets of remains returned to families so far. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) continues working with U.S. NTSB and U.K. counterparts to analyze the flight data recorder (“black box”), which has been recovered.
Investigators are focusing on possible technical issues such as engine thrust loss, flap or landing-gear misconfiguration, and potential pilot error or bird strike, amid unusual takeoff conditions. A retired pilot familiar with the aircraft suggested the landing gear may not have been retracted, causing severe drag. He also mentioned distraction from a bird strike or power loss.
Victim Identification & Family Support
Around 600 personnel—including doctors, assistants, and drivers—have supported body-handovers outside Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. A canine worker at the college hostel where the plane crashed is holding hope for news of his missing mother and toddler, having submitted DNA samples.
Among those confirmed deceased is Vijay Rupani, former Gujarat Chief Minister, whose remains have been positively matched.
Emergency Response & Safety Measures
The VVIP firefighting team was the first responder, aided by over 100 fire vehicles, including 61 from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, using a total of 700,000 liters of water. In the wake of the disaster, the DGCA has ordered urgent inspections of all 34 Boeing 787 Dreamliners in India; eight have already been checked.
Air India has announced interim compensation of INR 25 lakh (~£21,000) per deceased individual (including the sole survivor), in addition to the ₹1 crore earlier pledged by Tata Sons.
Next Steps in the Probe
Investigators are expected to release preliminary findings soon, particularly if the flight data recorder is in good condition. A multi-disciplinary government panel has been set up to examine crash protocols and safety regulations, aiming to enhance future response standards.
Today’s updates underscore significant progress: bodies are being identified and returned, the black box is under analysis, and safety audits are in motion. Meanwhile, human stories—like those of the canteen worker and bereaved families—highlight the tragedy’s deep impact. The aviation community now awaits the probe’s first technical insights, with potential ramifications for aircraft operations and regulations.