The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, 2025, continues to grip the nation in sorrow. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London, crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff. Out of the 242 people on board, 241 lost their lives, along with 38 individuals on the ground. The sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, is recovering.
DNA identification is underway for severely charred remains. As of Saturday night, 119 victims have been identified through DNA testing, and 76 bodies have been handed over to their families. Families like that of Lawrence Daniel Christian are mourning profound personal losses.
Investigations and Black Box Recovery
The black box has been recovered and is under analysis. Aviation expert Alok Singh pointed to potential causes, including dual engine thrust failure, bird strike, or technical malfunction. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has ordered enhanced surveillance of the entire Boeing 787 fleet.
Former Air India Pilot: Technical Snag More Likely Than Human Error
BJD leader and ex-Air India pilot Manmath Routray stated, “There are higher chances of a technical snag. The pilot must have followed all procedures. It’s becoming clear that there was zero negligence on the pilot’s part.” He also mentioned possible fuel contamination or dual engine failure.
Government Committee Meets to Investigate Crash Causes
A high-level multi-disciplinary panel, led by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, held its first meeting to examine the tragedy. While the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) investigates technical causes, the committee aims to make broad safety recommendations and new SOPs.
Final Rites of Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Held
Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, who was among the victims, was cremated in Rajkot with full state honors. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel paid floral tributes. His mortal remains were flown from Civil Hospital to Rajkot under tight security.
CPI’s D Raja Demands Transparent Probe
Communist Party of India leader D Raja questioned if there was a maintenance or runway management failure and called for an objective investigation into the cause of the crash.
Tata Sons Chairman to Air India Staff: “Most Heartbreaking Crisis”
Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran addressed Air India employees, saying, “We need to stay on course… This is the most heartbreaking crisis I have faced in my career.”
Boeing to Focus on Support, Not Orders at Paris Air Show
In light of the crash, Boeing announced that it will not focus on announcing new aircraft orders at the Paris Air Show, but rather on supporting its customers and assisting investigations.
Streamlined DNA Verification Process at Civil Hospital
Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has implemented a compassionate and streamlined process for handling the remains, including DNA verification, postmortem, and respectful handover to families. Nodal Officer Arvind Vijayan outlined the integrated workflow that prioritizes both accuracy and empathy.
Insurance Help Desks Set Up for Victims’ Families
The Gujarat government has activated special help desks at Civil Hospital for insurance and compensation claims. New India Assurance is the lead general insurer, and HDFC Life is leading for life claims. IRDAI has directed the creation of a Joint Cell for faster processing.
Second Black Box Recovered, AI Committee to Submit Report in 3 Months
A second black box has been recovered, and the government’s high-level panel is set to submit its findings within three months. The committee is formulating future safety guidelines.
UK Assists Nationals, Investigators Arrive in Ahmedabad
UK High Commissioner Lindy Cameron visited the consular center in Ahmedabad. British investigators are also assisting in the probe. Over 400 relatives of victims have been provided travel and accommodation support.
Air India Delhi-Vadodara Flight Returns Safely After Gear Issue
In a separate incident, Air India’s AI 819 flight returned safely to Delhi airport due to a suspected landing gear snag shortly after takeoff.
