The Supreme Court of India on Thursday issued a formal statement expressing deep condolences to the families affected by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which occurred earlier in the day and claimed several lives.
In an official press release dated June 12, 2025, the Chief Justice of India (CJI), along with Companion Judges of the Supreme Court and Registry officials, conveyed their sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families. The statement also noted the Chief Justice’s concern for those admitted at the B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad following the crash.
“During this difficult times our thoughts and prayers are with them. May they find strength and solace in the support of their loved ones,” the Chief Justice said in the press release.
The incident involved Air India flight AI 171, a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed into the Meghani Nagar residential area shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad airport at 1:38 PM on Thursday. The flight was headed to Gatwick, London, and had 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens. The aircraft was piloted by Captain Sumit Sabharwal with Co-Pilot Clive Kunder assisting.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft issued a distress “MAYDAY” call to Air Traffic Control (ATC) shortly after departure but did not respond to subsequent communications. Moments later, the plane crashed outside the airport perimeter, resulting in a massive fire and plumes of black smoke visible from miles away.
Sources from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft failed to maintain altitude and control post-takeoff, leading to the crash in a densely populated locality.
Emergency response teams were deployed immediately, and several injured individuals have been admitted to B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital. Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing.
The aviation disaster has drawn widespread shock and grief across the country. Several senior leaders and officials have extended their condolences and expressed concerns about aviation safety protocols. Investigations have been initiated by the DGCA to determine the cause of the crash.
