**Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight Crashes After Takeoff**

The crash, which involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, has left the aviation community and families in shock as authorities investigate the cause.

On June 12, 2025, Air India confirmed a devastating crash involving Flight AI171, which was en route from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, to London’s Gatwick Airport. The incident occurred shortly after the plane took off at 1:38 PM local time, with the aircraft crashing near the airport perimeter. Local sources report thick plumes of black smoke rising from the crash site, triggering a prompt response from emergency services.

While the exact number of casualties is still being confirmed, the airline has communicated that those injured are receiving hospital treatment. Expressing deep sorrow, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, stated, “We are on highest alert,” highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The flight included a mix of passengers: 169 Indians, 53 Britons, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals. At this time, investigators are working to ascertain the cause of the unfortunate incident. This crash marks a significant concern as Air India previously faced scrutiny for safety issues linked to its expanding aviation sector. The last major incident occurred in 2020, involving a crash in Kerala that resulted in 17 fatalities, raising ongoing questions about the reliability of the airline.

As developments unfold regarding this heartbreaking event, the affected families and the broader aviation community are left seeking answers and solace.