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Air India Crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Feared Dead Among 242 Onboard Ahmedabad-London Flight

An Air India Dreamliner crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025. The flight was bound for London with 242 people onboard. Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani is feared dead in the crash, though confirmation is awaited.

by Siddhi Tendulkar
Air India Crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Feared Dead Among 242 Onboard Ahmedabad-London Flight

A major aviation tragedy struck on 12 June 2025 when an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after take-off. The aircraft, which was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, went down near the Meghaninagar area, close to BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad. Among those feared dead is former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, though more information is awaited.

Air India Dreamliner Crash Raises Questions

The Air India Dreamliner crash occurred barely five minutes after the flight departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:38 PM (local time). The aircraft issued a MAYDAY signal shortly after take-off before crashing into a densely populated locality. According to Mint, thick smoke and flames followed the impact, and emergency teams rushed to the scene immediately.

Also Read: Air India Ahmedabad-London Plane Crashes; “Will Provide All Necessary Support To Those Impacted,” Airline Chairman

Air India inducted the ill-fated aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, into its fleet in 2014. It had a history of technical issues, though authorities had certified its airworthiness. On board were nationals from India, the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada. Rescue efforts began within minutes, with multiple fire engines and medical teams deployed across the area.

Vijay Rupani’s Death Yet To Be Confirmed

According to several media outlets, while former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani was among the passengers, his death has not been confirmed yet. While several reports indicated his name, but no final confirmation has been provided by his family or officials. The speculation has led to increased public attention and concern across Gujarat and political circles. Authorities are working to identify all passengers using recovered documents and DNA testing, if necessary. IANS has shared the list of passengers via X (formerly Twitter).

Also Read: These Airlines Have The Most Major Airplane Crashes!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a message on X (formerly Twitter), expressing deep sorrow and calling the incident “heartbreaking beyond words.” He stated that he has been in constant contact with ministers and local authorities to ensure support for affected families.

Emergency Services And Government Response

The Air India plane crash prompted an immediate and coordinated response from emergency and government agencies. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigades, and airport medical teams reached the site quickly to assist with rescue and relief operations. A green corridor was created to transport injured passengers to nearby hospitals without delay.

As reported by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ahmedabad Airport resumed flight operations at 16:05 PM (local time). An Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry to coordinate all crash-related details. Helpline numbers have been released to assist families and share updates: 011-24610843, 9650391859, and an Ahmedabad-specific line at 9974111327.

Also Read: How Safe Are Boeing 787 Dreamliner Jets, The Same Model That Was Involved In Ahmedabad Plane Crash?

According to The Times of India, Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu continues to monitor the situation closely. Authorities have initiated a high-level inquiry to determine the cause of the crash, with Boeing and Air India set to assist in the investigation.

Flight operations at Ahmedabad Airport have returned to normal, though heightened security and emergency protocols remain in place.

The dedicated passenger hotline number, set up by Air India, is 1800 5691 444, and for foreign nationals is +91 8062779200.

Kindly refrain from spreading misinformation and only trust verified news via official channels only.

Cover Image Courtesy: @@CISFHQrs/X & Wikipedia

First Published: June 12, 2025 6:29 PM