In one of the deadliest air disasters in Indian aviation history, Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 274 people. The aircraft was en route to Gatwick, London, with 242 people onboard, including 12 crew members. The last words from the cockpit, “Thrust not achieved… falling… Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!” were transmitted moments before the jet plunged into the B J Medical College hostel in Meghaninagar. Early reports suggest a thrust failure during takeoff, as the aircraft used nearly the entire 3.5-km runway—far longer than normal—before a sudden descent.

Authorities confirmed no weather-related issues, and ground crews noted no deviation from protocol. With clear skies and standard procedures followed, investigators are now focusing on flight data and cockpit voice recorders to pinpoint the cause. One British-Indian man in seat 11A survived, while at least 31 individuals on the ground, including students, were killed. So far, 31 victims have been identified through DNA, and the DGCA has launched a full probe, aided by airport surveillance and black box analysis. The tragic event has left families across Gujarat and India grieving, while also raising pressing questions about aviation safety and aircraft maintenance.