National Shockwaves: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Among 242 Onboard Ill-Fated Air India Dreamliner
Ahmedabad, India – June 12, 2025 – A profound sense of disbelief and sorrow has gripped India following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 individuals, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The London-bound flight met with disaster shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad, striking the airport’s perimeter wall before coming down in the nearby Meghaninagar area.
The incident, occurring around 1:38 PM IST, has sent shockwaves across the nation, triggering an immediate and extensive emergency response. Thick plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the crash site, indicating a massive post-impact fire, as rescue teams, including fire brigades, ambulances, and NDRF personnel, rushed to the scene. The Ahmedabad airport has been shut down, and roads leading to the crash site have been sealed to facilitate operations.
The Unconfirmed Fate of a Prominent Leader
Among the 242 passengers and 12 crew members onboard was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Reports from various sources indicate that Rupani was en route to London to meet his daughter. The news of his potential involvement has added a layer of profound concern to an already devastating situation, as official confirmations regarding casualties and survivors are still awaited. The nation holds its breath for any news regarding the fate of all those on board, including the prominent political figure.
A Dreamliner’s Tragic End
Flight AI171, operated by a modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner (reportedly registered as VT-ANB), was a scheduled international service to London’s Gatwick Airport. The aircraft reportedly reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet before losing signal, with its speed recorded at around 174 knots. Initial reports suggest the aircraft may have collided with a tree or the perimeter wall, causing it to veer off course and crash. Eyewitnesses from the Meghaninagar area reported hearing multiple explosions, followed by the sight of the plane engulfed in flames.
The fact that a Boeing 787, considered a state-of-the-art aircraft, was involved in this crash raises serious questions for aviation authorities. This is reportedly the first-ever crash of a Boeing 787 aircraft, according to the Aviation Safety Network database, making the investigation even more critical. The plane was carrying a full fuel load for its long-haul journey to London, which likely contributed to the intensity of the fire.
Immediate Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already dispatched a specialized accident investigation team from Delhi to Ahmedabad. Their primary task will be to recover the flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) – the “black boxes” – which are indispensable for understanding the sequence of events and the factors contributing to this catastrophe.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly been in contact with Gujarat’s Chief Minister and other state officials, assuring full central government support for the rescue and relief efforts. Emergency services are working tirelessly amidst the chaos, transporting injured passengers to nearby hospitals and battling the fierce blaze. A “green corridor” is being established to ensure swift movement for medical aid.
A Nation United in Grief
The Air India crash has plunged Ahmedabad, and indeed the entire country, into mourning. The hopes and dreams of 242 individuals, and the anticipation of their loved ones waiting in London, have been shattered in a matter of minutes. As the rescue and recovery operations continue, the focus remains on identifying victims, providing support to their families, and, most importantly, uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident. The world watches as India grapples with this profound loss, a stark reminder of the inherent risks in air travel and the absolute imperative of aviation safety. Sources
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