Air India has removed its signature red profile and cover images across social media platforms following the tragic crash of flight AI171, a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which went down shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The flight, which was headed to Gatwick Airport, London, took off at 1:38 PM and crashed within five minutes, reportedly after issuing a mayday call, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The aircraft had 242 people onboard, including 2 pilots, 10 crew members, and 230 passengers. The breakdown of passengers includes 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens.
The crash site is located in a residential area in Meghani Nagar, where the plane reportedly hit a doctors’ hostel—believed to house MBBS students. At least 20 students have been reported injured, and visuals from the site show burning debris near buildings, thick smoke, and damaged infrastructure.
Air India released a formal statement:
“The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals. Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident.”
Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, reached the scene shortly after the incident. Rescue efforts are ongoing, though sources say the chances of survivors are slim.
As a mark of mourning and corporate responsibility, Air India has blacked out its display and cover photos on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
FlightRadar data shows that the aircraft climbed only 625 feet before crashing, raising questions about a possible technical failure or engine malfunction. All flights from Ahmedabad airport have been suspended until further notice.
The tragedy has drawn global attention, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing condolences and stating that he is being kept informed as the situation develops.
Authorities have begun a formal investigation into the cause of the crash, and further updates are expected in the coming hours.
