The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 continues to send shockwaves across the world, as investigators reveal the pilot’s final mayday call moments before the plane fell from the sky, killing 265 people, including victims on the ground.
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, took off from Ahmedabad Airport on Thursday, June 12, bound for London Gatwick, where it was expected to land at 6:25 p.m. UK time. The flight carried 242 people, according to Air India:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 1 Canadian
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 12 crew members
However, within minutes of takeoff, the plane reached only 625 feet in altitude before plummeting to the ground roughly four miles from the airport, crashing directly into a medical college hostel in the Meghaninagar area.
Of the 242 people onboard, only one survivor has been confirmed: 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. Authorities report that 265 bodies have been recovered so far, a total that includes both passengers and victims on the ground. Rescue efforts are ongoing and the toll may still rise.
Pilot’s Final Words Revealed
The cockpit voice recorder captured a harrowing mayday transmission from Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who was flying alongside First Officer Clive Kunder.
“Mayday… no thrust, losing power, unable to lift.”
This brief message was reportedly the last communication before the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control and nosedived into the cityscape.
India’s aviation regulator confirmed the mayday alert but said there was no further response from the crew. It is believed the pilots attempted to regain control, but the aircraft rapidly descended, causing a massive explosion and fire upon impact.
What Caused the Crash?
The cause of the disaster remains under investigation. Authorities have recovered one black box, and a joint inquiry is underway involving:
- India’s DGCA
- The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB)
- The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
- Aircraft manufacturer Boeing
While early theories include engine failure, bird strike, or a possible mechanical fault, no official conclusions have been made.
Condolences & Support
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India’s parent company Tata Group, issued a statement saying:
“With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight AI171 was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
He added that Air India is offering full support to victims’ families and is assisting emergency teams at the site.
