Tragic Crash Claims Over 270 Lives
On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, tragically crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The flight was enroute to London’s Gatwick Airport. The aircraft was carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Only one passenger, survived the disaster. The crash resulted in the deaths of all other passengers and crew members, as well as at least 38 individuals on the ground, including medical students residing in a hostel that was struck by the aircraft.
Air India’s Immediate Response
In the aftermath of this devastating incident, Air India, under the ownership of Tata Sons, announced an interim compensation of ₹25 lakh for each of the deceased passengers and the sole survivor. This payment is in addition to the ₹1 crore compensation previously announced by Tata Sons. Air India CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, visited the crash site in Ahmedabad to meet with the victims’ families and offer support. He confirmed that over 200 trained personnel have been deployed to provide continuous assistance, including dedicated caregivers and access to counselling services.
Tata Group’s Comprehensive Support
The Tata Group has pledged comprehensive support to those affected by the tragedy. In addition to the financial compensation, the group has committed to covering the full medical treatment costs for all individuals who sustained injuries in the crash. This gesture underscores Tata’s dedication to assisting all affected parties in the aftermath of the incident.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated immediate inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft operated by Indian carriers, including Air India and IndiGo. The crash, which is considered the deadliest global aviation disaster in a decade, occurred shortly after take-off when the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into buildings, including a medical college hostel. Only one of the 242 people on board survived. Air India, which operates 33 Boeing 787s, and IndiGo, operating one, are conducting safety checks ordered by authorities, including examinations of engine function and take-off parameters. The aircraft involved had GEnx engines, and potential causes like engine thrust and landing gear issues are under investigation. The Indian government has assembled a panel to report on the crash within three months. Meanwhile, victim identification using DNA and dental records is ongoing, with authorities struggling to manage the emotional and logistical impact.
A Sole Survivor’s Story
Among the victims was Arjun Patoliya, a 37-year-old father from London, who was returning home after honouring his late wife’s final wish by immersing her ashes in a local river. His two young daughters, aged 4 and 8, remain in London while Arjun was returning to them. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Arjun’s employer has raised over £422,000 to help support the orphaned girls.
Ongoing Investigations and International Involvement
Investigators have recovered the aircraft’s black boxes, which will aid in determining the cause of the crash. The investigation is ongoing, with international involvement, including Boeing and aviation agencies from the U.S., UK, and other affected nations. The tragedy has cast a shadow over Air India’s safety record and recovery efforts, prompting a re-evaluation of safety protocols and aircraft maintenance procedures.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight 171 is a heart-breaking tragedy that has affected numerous families and communities. Air India’s immediate response, including financial compensation and support services, reflects the company’s commitment to assisting those impacted by the disaster. The ongoing investigations and safety measures underscore the importance of ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety to prevent such incidents in the future.
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