The death toll from the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 near Ahmedabad has risen to 274, as authorities confirm fatalities among both passengers onboard and residents on the ground. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bound for London Gatwick, crashed within minutes of takeoff on Thursday, sending shockwaves across India and the aviation world.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft had 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers, two pilots, and 10 crew members. Only one survivor, identified as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British national of Indian origin, was pulled out alive from the wreckage.
Crash Details: Sudden Descent and MAYDAY Call
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The flight, commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, departed from Runway 23 at Ahmedabad Airport at 1:39 p.m.
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Shortly after takeoff, the plane issued a MAYDAY distress signal to Air Traffic Control.
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However, no further communication was received.
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The aircraft crashed just outside the airport perimeter, directly hitting the BJ Medical College hostel and mess complex, killing students and medical staff on the ground.
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Eyewitnesses reported the plane was engulfed in fire, emitting thick black smoke.
Toll and Response
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The casualty count now stands at 274, including those on board and people on the ground.
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The charred remains of victims are being identified through DNA analysis.
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The black box, which includes flight data and cockpit voice recordings, is still being searched for by investigators.
Tata Group Announces ₹1 Crore Compensation, Medical Aid
Responding to the tragedy, Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran announced that the families of all deceased passengers and crew members would receive ₹1 crore (10 million INR) each.
“No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities,” Chandrasekaran said.
Other support measures include:
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Full medical care for injured victims
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Funding to rebuild the hostel complex at BJ Medical College
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Ongoing coordination with authorities and civil aviation teams
Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata also issued a message of solidarity and grief, calling the incident “heart-wrenching” and offering condolences to all affected.
Spotlight on Boeing’s Safety History
As investigations intensify, attention has turned to the aircraft model involved in the crash — the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
A recent report highlighted that a former Boeing employee had previously flagged safety issues at the same factory that produced this model. The crash has reignited global concerns about Boeing’s manufacturing practices and compliance systems.
Earlier this year, Boeing tentatively agreed to a $900 million settlement with the US Justice Department related to its 737 Max crashes in 2018 (Lion Air) and 2019 (Ethiopian Airlines), which killed 346 people. The company also faced scrutiny after a door panel blew off mid-air on a 737 Max flight in early 2024.
Families of previous crash victims have opposed such settlements, demanding criminal prosecution for the aviation giant.
Official Statement from Boeing On Air India Flight AI-171 near Ahmedabad
In response to the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI‑171, Boeing issued the following message:
“Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad. I have spoken with Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran to offer our full support, and a Boeing team stands ready to support the investigation led by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau.”
— Kelly Ortberg, CEO, Boeing
Boeing also confirmed that it is cooperating fully with Indian authorities and has dispatched a team of experts to assist in the technical investigation.
Investigation Underway
A high-level probe has been initiated by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA. The key focus areas include:
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Aircraft maintenance and inspection logs
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Communication between pilots and ATC
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Flight data from the yet-to-be-recovered black box
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Manufacturer-side safety concerns
Rescue teams continue to work through the wreckage. The Civil Aviation Minister has assured a transparent and swift investigation.
