Flight bound for UK crashes with over 240 passengers reportedly on board

A flight bound for the UK has crashed with a reported over 240 passengers on board.

The plane crashed in a residential area in Ahmedabad, western India, shortly after takeoff.

As black smoke is seen rising in the area, the chairman of Air India has called it a 'tragic incident'. Rescue teams have rushed to the scene as signal from the aircraft was lost 'less than a minute' after it took off.

The director general of the Directorate of Civil Aviation told the Associated Press that there were 242 passengers, including crew members, on board.

The airline wrote on X: "Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest."

The aircraft involved was a 787-8 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick from India. (Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Flight tracking site, Flight Radar24, posted: "Scheduled time of departure was 09:50 local time and scheduled arrival time was 18:25 local time.

"The signal from the aircraft was lost at 10:08 local time at 625 feet, less than a minute after take off."

A spokesperson for Ahmedabad Airport said in statement: "Flight Al 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport.

"As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice.

"Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates before proceeding to the airport. We request your cooperation and patience as authorities manage this evolving situation. Further updates will be provided as soon as available."

Gatwick Airport has said in a statement: "We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25," the airport has said in a statement.

"More information to follow."

Flight Radar lists the plane as a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, with SeatGuru saying it has a total of 256 seats onboard (but it's not clear exactly how many were occupied).

India's aviation minister says rescue teams 'have been mobilised' and they are on 'highest alert'.

The plane crashed shortly after takeoff. (Nandan Dave/Anadolu via Getty Images)

"I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action," said Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu.

"Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site. My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families."

The Chairman of Air India, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, has said: “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI 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.

"Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families."