Ahmedabad, June 13, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the site of the devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, where a Boeing 787-8 aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. The Ahmedabad-London flight went down in one of the worst aviation disasters India has witnessed in recent decades.
The aircraft, operating Flight AI-117, crashed into a college hostel building minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on the afternoon of June 12. Emergency services rushed to the site, but intense fire and debris hampered rescue operations. Only one passenger survived the crash and is currently in critical condition at a city hospital.
Prime Minister Modi surveyed the crash site and met with local authorities and rescue teams. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured full government support for the families of the victims. “This is a national tragedy. The nation mourns with the families who have lost their loved ones,” said the Prime Minister. He also announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of each of the deceased.
A two-day national mourning has been declared by the central government. Flags will fly at half-mast, and all official and cultural events have been suspended. Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is also expected to visit the site, said a high-level investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of the crash.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are jointly investigating the incident. Officials have confirmed that the black box of the aircraft has been recovered and sent for analysis. A team of experts from Boeing is also arriving in India to assist in the technical investigation.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke coming from the aircraft moments after takeoff. Preliminary observations suggest a possible mechanical failure, but authorities have cautioned against speculation until a thorough inquiry is completed.
Air India has released a statement expressing deep regret over the incident and has set up emergency helplines and support centres for the families of the victims. “We are devastated by this loss. Our immediate focus is on providing all necessary assistance to the affected families,” the airline said.
Global leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have extended condolences to India. The Indian aviation community is in shock, with industry experts calling for a comprehensive review of safety and maintenance protocols.
This tragic incident has not only raised serious questions about aircraft safety but also triggered an outpouring of grief nationwide. As recovery operations continue and the investigation progresses, the nation remains united in mourning one of its darkest aviation days.
Key Developments:
- 241 confirmed dead, 1 survivor in critical condition.
- PM Modi visits crash site, announces ₹10 lakh compensation.
- DGCA and AAIB launch joint investigation; black box recovered.
- Two-day national mourning declared.
- Air India sets up support helplines for victims’ families.
Further updates awaited as the investigation continues.
