Casualties in Plane Crash Ahmedabad: Timeline and Impact on the City

The tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad has left the city and the nation in deep mourning. As details emerge, the scale of casualties in Ahmedabad and the far-reaching impact of the incident are becoming clearer. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Ahmedabad plane crash casualties, the sequence of events, and the aftermath for the city and its residents.

The Fateful Flight: What Happened?

Air India Flight AI171 – The Journey Cut Short

On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, bound for London Gatwick. The aircraft was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers, 10 crew members, and 2 pilots. Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian citizen.

The Crash Sequence

Shortly after takeoff at 1:38 PM, the aircraft failed to achieve lift at a low altitude of just 825 feet. The flight crew issued a "Mayday" distress call, but communication was lost soon after. Within minutes, the plane crashed into a doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College, triggering a massive fire and widespread panic in the area.

Casualties in Ahmedabad: The Grim Toll

Immediate Loss of Life

The scale of casualties in Ahmedabad from this plane crash is devastating. All 242 people on board—passengers and crew—are feared dead, making this one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s recent history. The Ahmedabad plane crash casualties include Indian and international nationals, reflecting the global impact of the tragedy.

Additional Casualties on the Ground

The crash site, a hostel for medical students, saw further casualties in Ahmedabad. Five medical students lost their lives, and several others were injured as the aircraft tore through the building during lunchtime. The images from the scene, with part of the aircraft embedded in the hostel and personal belongings scattered, underscore the suddenness and severity of the disaster.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

Emergency responders, including medical and fire rescue teams, rushed to the site. Over two dozen ambulances transported the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities cordoned off the area to facilitate rescue operations and manage traffic, ensuring swift access for emergency services.

The Aftermath: City in Shock

Official Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior government officials have expressed deep sorrow over the casualties in Ahmedabad. The Civil Aviation Minister and Home Minister were directed to Ahmedabad to oversee relief operations and ensure all possible assistance to those affected.

Community and Global Reactions

The Royal Family of the United Kingdom issued a statement expressing their condolences, highlighting the international dimension of the Ahmedabad plane crash casualties. Messages of sympathy and support have poured in from around the world, reflecting the widespread grief over the loss of so many lives.

Investigations and Ongoing Updates

What Caused the Crash?

While the exact cause of the Ahmedabad plane crash is still under investigation, preliminary reports suggest a failure to achieve sufficient lift after takeoff. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are working closely with Boeing and other agencies to determine the factors that led to this catastrophic event

Support for Families

Air India has set up helplines and is working to provide information and support to the families of the victims. The airline and government agencies are committed to transparency and timely updates as the investigation continues.

The Impact on Ahmedabad

Mourning and Memorials

The magnitude of casualties in Ahmedabad has left the city in mourning. Vigils and memorials are being organized for the victims, especially the young medical students whose lives were tragically cut short. The community is coming together to support the bereaved families and honor the memory of those lost.

Airport and City Operations

After initial disruptions, operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have resumed. However, the psychological and emotional impact of the Ahmedabad plane crash casualties will linger for a long time, affecting not just the immediate families but the entire city.