Tragic Air India Crash in Ahmedabad: Dubai and Pakistan Communities Express Deep Condolences
In a heartbreaking aviation disaster, an Air India plane crashed shortly after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, on June 12, 2025, en route to London Gatwick. The incident has shocked not just India but also neighboring Pakistan and the Indian diaspora in Dubai, where many passengers had family and friends.
According to official reports, Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, took off at 1:38 PM local time and tragically crashed five minutes later into the Meghani Nagar residential area, resulting in significant damage and visible smoke plumes seen kilometers away. Dubai-based Indian and Pakistani communities who frequently travel this route are anxiously following developments.
The aircraft was carrying 244 individuals, including 232 passengers (230 adults and 2 infants), along with two pilots and 10 cabin crew members. The pilot in command was Sumit Sabharwal, assisted by Clive Kunder. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) India confirmed the crash and activated airport emergency services immediately.
An official statement from Air India’s chairman, N. Chandrasekaran, expressed deep sorrow:
“With profound grief, I confirm the tragic accident involving Air India Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected. Our focus remains on supporting emergency response efforts and ensuring the affected families receive all possible assistance.”
The airline also released a statement, assuring that real-time updates would be made available on AirIndia.com and their official social media channels. An emergency response center has been set up to assist families and provide verified information.
Global Reaction: Concern in Dubai and Pakistan
This devastating incident has deeply impacted the Indian and Pakistani expat communities in Dubai, many of whom rely on Air India and similar carriers for regular travel between India, Pakistan, and the UAE. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of prayers and support from residents in Dubai, with vigils and prayer events already being organized in parts of Karama and Bur Dubai, where large South Asian populations reside.
Several families in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, as well as Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, have reached out to Indian authorities for more information, fearing for loved ones on board. Travel agencies in Pakistan and Dubai have also reported a surge in calls seeking updates.
Aviation Authorities Investigate Cause of Crash
The DGCA and Air India have dispatched teams to Ahmedabad to investigate the root cause of the crash. Initial visuals from local Indian TV channels showed the aircraft engulfed in flames, with black smoke rising above residential rooftops. The crash site has been sealed off, and rescue operations are ongoing.
While the aviation link between India and Dubai is one of the busiest in the world, incidents like this are extremely rare. Dubai-based aviation analysts have pointed out that Air India’s Dreamliner fleet is generally considered reliable, and the cause behind this unexpected failure will be closely examined by authorities from India, the UAE, and potentially the UK.
Final Thoughts
This tragedy underscores the emotional and human connections that tie India, Pakistan, and Dubai. As rescue and recovery operations continue, the people of Dubai—particularly the vibrant South Asian community—stand in solidarity with all those affected.
For the latest information and emergency contact numbers, passengers and families are advised to visit www.airindia.com or follow @airindia on X (formerly Twitter).
