Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 – A tragic plane crash involving Air India flight AI 171 has shocked the nation after the Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a residential area in Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad, shortly after takeoff at 1:38 PM today. Reports confirm that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers on board.
Key Details of the Crash:
Flight: Air India AI 171 (Boeing 787 Dreamliner)
Passengers: 232 (230 adults, 2 infants) + 12 crew members (Total: 244)
Pilot & Co-Pilot: Captain Sumit Sabharwal & First Officer Clive Kunder
Crash Time: Approximately 5 minutes after takeoff
Location: Residential area near Meghani Nagar, Ahmedabad
Rescue & Emergency Response:
Thick smoke was visible from a distance as emergency teams rushed to the site.
Fire Officer Jayesh Khadia confirmed the aircraft caught fire upon impact, with fire tenders working to control the blaze.
Ahmedabad Airport (SVPIA) suspended all operations temporarily.
Who Was Vijay Rupani?
Former Chief Minister of Gujarat (2016–2021)
Born: August 2, 1956, in Rangoon (now Yangon, Myanmar)
Political Career:
Mayor of Rajkot (1996–1997)
Rajya Sabha MP (2006–2012)
Gujarat BJP President before becoming CM
Handled key portfolios like Transport, Labour, and Water Supply
Airport Statement:
A spokesperson for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) stated:
“Due to the Air India plane crash, all flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice.”
Ongoing Investigation:
Authorities, including the DAW, ADAW, and FOI, are gathering details as rescue efforts continue.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for verified updates.