Air India Chairman Confirms Tragic Crash of Flight AI171, Emergency Response Activated
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, has officially confirmed the crash of Air India flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. The Boeing Dreamliner was carrying 242 passengers when the tragic accident occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12.
What does the initial flight data reveal?
Initial flight data from Flightradar24 indicates that the aircraft reached a maximum barometric altitude of just 625 feet above mean sea level before entering a descent at approximately -475 feet per minute. Given Ahmedabad airport’s elevation of around 200 feet, this suggests the aircraft climbed barely 400 feet above ground level before descending rapidly. The flight lasted less than a minute after takeoff, and the aircraft’s transponder stopped transmitting shortly after descent began.
Was there any indication of technical malfunction?
No official statement has yet been provided by Air India or the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regarding the cause. However, the early descent at low altitude raises concerns of possible mechanical issues such as loss of thrust, control system failure, or catastrophic onboard malfunction. Investigators from DGCA and Air India’s flight safety teams are currently at the crash site, working to recover the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR).
How is Air India responding?
Chairman Chandrasekaran expressed profound sorrow, stating: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
An emergency centre has been activated to coordinate assistance and provide updates. A dedicated support team is operational for families seeking information about their loved ones. Air India continues to cooperate closely with emergency response teams at the crash site.
What happens next?
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has ordered a full inquiry, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) tasked to analyse the flight recorders once recovered. Boeing representatives will also support Indian investigators under international aviation safety protocols.
Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.
