By CTV Uganda News Desk
Tragedy struck in India’s western city of Ahmedabad as Air India Flight 171, en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff on 12-06-2025 killing most of the 242 passengers and crew on board. The aircraft—a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—collided with a residential hostel for doctors, leaving behind a grim trail of destruction and global shock.
Catastrophic Impact and Human Toll
The aircraft, which was to fly from Ahmedabad to London before continuing on to Goa, lost control during departure and crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel building. Harrowing images from the site show the aircraft’s tail jutting from the remains of the structure, with debris scattered across the vicinity.
More than 200 people are feared dead. While initial reports from Ahmedabad’s police commissioner stated that there appeared to be no survivors, Air India’s CEO later confirmed that some injured passengers were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Tragically, four medical students residing in the hostel remain missing, adding another layer of sorrow to the catastrophe.
National and International Response
Air India swiftly activated emergency hotlines for both domestic and international families:
📞 Local support: +91 99741 11327
🌐 Foreign nationals: +91 8062779200
The airline also dispatched a special team of caregivers to Ahmedabad to offer direct support to victims’ families and local responders.
Tata Group, the parent company of Air India, announced financial compensation of ₹1 crore ($117,000) to the families of the deceased. Tata Sons Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran stated, “We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and ensure that they receive all necessary care and support.” The company also pledged assistance in rebuilding the damaged hostel.
Lives Lost and Nationalities Affected
Air India confirmed the nationalities of the passengers as follows:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 1 Canadian national
- 7 Portuguese nationals
Uganda, home to many frequent travelers to India for education, business, and healthcare, has expressed solidarity through various diplomatic and civil society channels. Officials from the Indian High Commission in Kampala have assured local families of passengers that updates will be communicated promptly.
Boeing Responds Amid First Major Dreamliner Incident
The crash marks the first major accident involving the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner since its commercial debut. Boeing issued a statement offering full technical support and condolences: “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and stand ready to assist Air India in every way.”
Aviation experts globally are closely monitoring the investigation, which is being led by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
Global Condolences
Reactions have poured in from around the world. His Holiness Pope Leo XIV expressed “heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives,” and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured and peace for the affected.
At London’s Gatwick Airport, where Flight 171 was scheduled to arrive and continue as Flight 146 to Goa, airline desks remain shuttered and silent. Staff in high-visibility jackets are guiding affected passengers and members of the media as they await further developments.
A Wake-Up Call for Global Aviation
While India has made strides in improving aviation safety in recent decades, experts agree that this tragedy underscores the persistent vulnerabilities in high-density airspace management, aircraft oversight, and ground infrastructure.
Ugandan aviation analyst Joel Ssenkumba commented, “This is a stark reminder that even advanced aircraft and major carriers remain susceptible to disaster. We must prioritize ongoing training, strict maintenance checks, and clear accountability across the aviation industry.”
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue and families begin the painful process of grieving, the world watches with sorrow and urgency. In moments like these, air travel—so often a symbol of connection—becomes a solemn reminder of human fragility.
CTV Uganda will continue to provide updates as further details emerge.
For families seeking information, please contact Air India’s hotline or the Indian High Commission in Uganda.
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