An Air India Boeing 787-8 bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday 12 June 2025, killing 241 of the 242 people on board.

Cirium, the aviation analytics firm, reports that the aircraft involved was 11.5 years old and built in Seattle. It had accumulated over 41,000 flight hours and nearly 8,000 takeoffs and landings, including around 700 flight cycles in the past 12 months—figures considered typical for a 787 of that vintage.

According to Cirium data, there are currently 1,148 Boeing 787 aircraft in active service worldwide, with an average fleet age of 7.5 years. At the time of the incident, Air India operated 34 Boeing 787s, including the aircraft involved, and had firm orders for 20 more, along with letters of intent for an additional 24.

In total, Air India operates a fleet of 190 aircraft, with an average age of 8.4 years, Cirium confirms.

The crash has prompted a wave of condolences and official reactions from across the aviation sector and international leadership.

In a statement, Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, said: “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event. At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted.”

A statement from Boeing president and chief executive, Kelly Ortberg, said: “Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad. I have spoken with Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran to offer our full support, and a Boeing team stands ready to support the investigation led by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.”

Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, stated: “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In that sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.”

UK Prime Minister, Kier Starmer, said: “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”

Stewart Wingate, chief executive at London Gatwick, posted a statement: “As the detailed investigations begin into the causes of the terrible accident involving Flight AI171, I would like to extend my personal gratitude to teams from across London Gatwick and out partner organisations, the police and other relevant authorities, for all the hard work that has gone behind the scenes to support those affected.

“I would also like to thanks everyone, including other airports and airlines, for their messages of support and offers of help. As a sector that prioritises the safety, security and wellbeing of millions of people, it is at times like these that we come together to demonstrate our commitment to take care of each other, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

“We will continue to do everything we can to provide assistance. Our thoughts remain with everyone at Air India, and the many families and communities around the world who have been impacted by such a tragic loss of life.”

The UK Civil Aviation Authority posted a message of support via social media: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with those affected by the Air India crash involving a London bound flight. We’re supporting the Government and other relevant authorities in responding to this incident.”

Meanwhile, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it is coordinating with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as the investigation begins. “The FAA is in contact with the NTSB regarding Air India flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad (AMD) to London Gatwick (LGW), that was involved in an accident in India on Thursday, June 12. When an international incident occurs, that government leads the investigation. In the event assistance is requested, the NTSB is the official US representative and the FAA provides technical support. We stand ready to launch a team immediately in coordination with the NTSB.”

British Airways chairman and chief executive, Sean Doyle, extended his airline’s condolences: “On behalf of everyone at British Airways, I’m extending our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to our friends at Air India, the friends and families of those customers, crew and members of the public who have sadly lost their lives, and to those who have suffered injuries as a result of the terrible tragedy this morning. We have offered every support and assistance to the airline as it responds to this devastating incident.”

Aviation safety lawyer Robert A. Clifford, lead counsel in the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX crash case, commented on preliminary observations: “Review of available video and eyewitness information indicate some form of power or flight control loss. The Indian government investigators should have flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder information within a couple of days that will provide vital information to try to get to the bottom of this deadly tragedy.”

Amy Leversidge, general secretary of the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA), stressed the importance of a thorough investigation: “Pilots around the globe are deeply saddened by this news. Members of the British Airline Pilots’ Association send condolences to all those affected. It is vital a full and thorough investigation is now carried out without interference or unhelpful speculation about the contributory factors so that future tragedies can be avoided.”

Pieter Elbers, chief executive at IndiGo, said: “Shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific accident of Air India flight AI 171. My thoughts and prayers are with passengers, crew, and their families. Our deepest condolences for families and loved ones for all those affected by this tragedy. The entire IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) family stands in solidarity and united in spirit with our colleagues at Air India Limited in this very difficult time.”

Air Canada released a statement with its condolences: “Our thoughts and sympathies extend to all those affected by flight AI171. Air Canada is closely monitoring the situation and stands with our Star Alliance partner Air India, and all our industry colleagues, ready to assist during this very difficult time. Air Canada does not currently operate to Ahmedabad airport, in western India.”

London’s Heathrow Airport issued the following statement: “Our hearts and prayers go to the families and friends of passengers and crew onboard the Air India flight headed for Gatwick this morning who were involved in the devastating incident in Ahmedabad. We are closely following the situation and have reached out to our Air India colleagues to offer our support and solidarity.”

Last updated: 16 June 2025 / 09:47