An Air India passenger plane, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, known as Flight AI171, was en route to London’s Gatwick airport when the tragedy occurred. A single survivor has been reported, and authorities are probing the potential for numerous casualties on the ground.

The aircraft had departed at 1:38 p.m. local time and was due to land in London at 6:25 p.m. local time. The passengers included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and a lone Canadian. There were initial reports of no survivors, but a man who was on the plane has been confirmed alive and is currently receiving medical treatment.

This crash marks the first of its kind for the 787-8 Dreamliner, according to Boeing’s April 2025 summary of incidents involving its aircraft. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson and Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg have extended their condolences and support to everyone affected.

This development follows earlier reports that the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board will be leading a team of investigators traveling to India to assist the local Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau with its investigation into the crash. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy have also confirmed their support.

We should note that investigations are still in the early stages, and a cause has not yet been determined. Weather does not appear to be a factor, as there were only light winds at the time and visibility was good. However, there are questions about the landing gear and flaps of the plane.

Reports indicate that the man who survived is a British national of Indian origin, named Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. He is listed as being seated in seat 11A. Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital reports that Ramesh is disoriented with multiple injuries but is out of immediate danger.

When we consider the numerous lives lost and affected. Video footage of the crash shows the passenger jet flying low over buildings before disappearing behind them, followed by a large explosion. The wreckage hit B.J. Medical College’s dining area, leading to at least five confirmed fatalities and nearly 50 injuries. Among the deceased is former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, as confirmed by India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.

It is indicated that the flight crashed mere minutes after takeoff. Flight Radar reports a final signal received from Flight AI171 seconds post-departure. The necessity of combing through debris and treating the injured has led to the deployment of at least 130 personnel by the Indian Army.

Reports from India are of a nation in shock, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing his distress over the heartbreaking tragedy. Similarly, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed his concern for the many British nationals on the ill-fated flight.

As authorities and investigators continue their work, it is important to remember the human toll of this tragic event.