PM Modi visits the crash site in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ahmedabad on Friday to assess the aftermath of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash, which resulted in the deaths of at least 265 people. The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff on Thursday, marking one of India’s most devastating aviation accidents in recent history.
Upon arrival at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, PM Modi traveled directly to the crash site in the Meghaninagar area, accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. He also visited the hospital to meet the sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh—a British national of Indian origin.
Modi expresses condolences and shock
Reacting to the incident, Prime Minister Modi said he was “stunned” by the tragedy. Posting on social media, he wrote, “It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this 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.”
The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this 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.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025
High-level government response and probe initiated
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu visited the crash site on Thursday to oversee emergency response efforts. Minister Kinjarapu confirmed the formation of a high-level committee to investigate the cause of the crash.
Crash details: Seconds after takeoff
Flight AI171 was en route to London Gatwick when it lost altitude moments after taking off around 1:30 PM. The aircraft crashed into residential quarters designated for BJ Medical College staff in the Meghaninagar neighborhood. Witnesses reported massive flames and thick smoke plumes rising from the impact site.
Emergency call and possible causes
Air Traffic Control confirmed that the pilot sent a ‘Mayday‘ distress signal shortly after takeoff, indicating a full emergency. Aviation analysts suggest the crash may have been caused by dual engine failure or a bird strike, although the investigation is ongoing.
Casualties and survivor details
Air India confirmed the aircraft was carrying 241 people. The deceased included:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
The only survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, is being treated at a local hospital.
Tragically, at least five students from BJ Medical College were also killed in the incident.
Flight crew experience
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight was operated by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had over 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours of experience.
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