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Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner Crashes in Ahmedabad: Over 300 Feared Dead
Nation in Shock as London-Bound Flight AI-782 Crashes Near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
In a heart-wrenching aviation tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the country and the world, Air India Flight AI-782, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on 12 June 2025 at around 1:39 PM IST.
The ill-fated flight was en route to London, carrying approximately 242 people on board, including passengers and crew members. The aircraft lost contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC) just minutes after takeoff and plummeted into the Beghani area, near BJ Medical College, causing massive destruction on the ground.
Authorities have reported that over 300 lives have been lost, marking it as one of the deadliest air disasters in India’s aviation history.
✈️ Final Moments Before the Crash
The aircraft was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with 8,200 hours of flying experience, and Co-Pilot Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of experience.
According to ATC officials, the plane left the runway at 1:39 PM. Within a few minutes of takeoff, a “Mayday” distress signal was transmitted by the cockpit. However, ATC could not establish further contact after the distress call. Moments later, the aircraft was reported to have crashed.
Eyewitnesses in the Beghani locality described a loud explosion followed by plumes of black smoke engulfing the area. Residential buildings and parts of BJ Medical College were severely damaged, causing numerous civilian casualties on the ground.
🛬 Boeing 787 Suffers First “Hull Loss”
This crash marks the first-ever hull loss (complete destruction of the aircraft) involving the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which has long been regarded as one of the safest and most technologically advanced passenger jets.
Though no official cause has been confirmed, preliminary investigations by ATC suggest that dual engine failure might have been a contributing factor. Aviation safety authorities, Air India representatives, and aircraft engineers have reached the site to begin a full-scale investigation.
🚨 Emergency Response and National Mourning
Emergency services responded rapidly, with NDRF teams, firefighters, and ambulances deployed to the crash site. The Gujarat Police have sealed the area to manage rescue operations and recover the remains of the victims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences, stating, “This is a national tragedy beyond words. My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
The Civil Aviation Ministry has declared a national day of mourning, and flags will fly at half-mast in honor of the deceased.
📍 Ground-Level Devastation: Impact on Civilians
The Beghani area, densely populated with homes and commercial establishments, bore the brunt of the crash. Debris was scattered across a large radius, and medical teams are working around the clock to treat the injured.
Hospitals across Ahmedabad, including Civil Hospital, BJ Medical College, and Apollo, are on high alert. Mass cremation arrangements have reportedly begun, highlighting the scale of this human tragedy.
🔍 Investigation Underway
A team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Boeing representatives, and forensic experts are currently investigating the cause of the crash. Black box recovery is a top priority, as it will reveal flight data and cockpit voice recordings critical to understanding what went wrong.
Until official confirmation, engine failure remains a leading theory behind the crash.
🕯️ A Moment to Reflect, A Call for Accountability
This tragic event has raised serious questions about air safety protocols, emergency communication systems, and maintenance standards in Indian aviation.
As the nation mourns, families seek justice, and experts search for answers, we are reminded how precious and fragile life is.
📞 Helpline for Families
Air India has launched a dedicated emergency helpline for family members of passengers:
📱 Emergency Contact Number: 1800-111-000