On December 13, 2024, Air India had cancelled the AI171 service from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, citing a “technical fault” that affected nearly 300 passengers, many of whom had already checked in and boarded. The issue forced the airline to disembark all passengers, delay onward travel by several hours, and rebook some passengers on different carriers.

At the time, Air India did not publicly specify the nature of the fault, but sources familiar with airline operations say it involved sensor irregularities and issues with onboard control systems that required urgent intervention. These technical concerns are now drawing renewed scrutiny in light of today’s crash.

“The fact that the same flight was grounded for mechanical reasons only months ago will absolutely be central to any investigation,” said an aviation safety expert. “Investigators will now look at maintenance logs, service bulletins, and airworthiness directives connected to this specific airframe.”

Connection to Today’s Tragedy

Today’s crash of Flight AI171, operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, en route to London Gatwick Airport. The aircraft carried 242 people, and crashed into a residential building, causing a fiery explosion and widespread damage.

Earlier analysis of takeoff footage has already suggested serious abnormalities, including that the landing gear remained extended and flaps appeared fully retracted a configuration highly inconsistent with safe takeoff procedures.

Now, with the history of prior technical faults, aviation regulators and the airline may face tough questions over the airworthiness and inspection frequency of the aircraft, and whether the December 2024 technical issue was resolved or indicative of deeper mechanical instability.

DGCA and Air India Under Pressure

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has not yet commented on the December 2024 incident, but sources say it will be a core focus of the official crash investigation, which is now underway with support from Boeing and U.S. safety authorities.

Air India, in a brief statement earlier today, confirmed the crash and said an internal technical team has been activated, in coordination with the DGCA and Boeing.

Aviation analysts warn that any negligence or pattern of recurring faults especially involving critical control systems could lead to regulatory action or a broader audit of Air India’s long-haul fleet.

Background: India’s Flagship Carrier

Flight AI171 was one of Air India’s premier long-haul routes, connecting western India with the UK. The airline had previously been criticised over maintenance delays and aging aircraft, although its 787 Dreamliner fleet is considered relatively modern.

Passengers affected by the December 2024 cancellation had taken to social media at the time, expressing frustration and concern over a lack of transparency from the airline. Many were traveling for holidays or medical treatment in the UK.

Next Steps

With the black box and cockpit voice recorder from the crashed aircraft now being sought at the crash site, officials are expected to compare flight data from today’s crash with maintenance history and fault logs from previous months including the December 2024 cancellation.

If systemic issues are uncovered, the fallout could lead to fleet-wide inspections, suspension of certain routes, or further regulatory investigations into Air India’s operations.

Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025
In a devastating aviation tragedy, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The flight was en route to London Gatwick Airport, carrying 242 individuals, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

The aircraft took off at 1:38 PM IST and lost contact with air traffic control approximately five minutes later. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions followed by thick plumes of smoke as the plane descended into the Meghani Nagar area, crashing near a medical college hostel.

Casualties and Nationalities

As of the latest reports, at least 133 fatalities have been confirmed. The passengers included:

• 169 Indian nationals

• 53 British nationals

• 7 Portuguese nationals

• 1 Canadian national

Among those believed to be on board is Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Rescue and Emergency Response

Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, and teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were promptly deployed to the crash site. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India have initiated investigations into the cause of the crash.

Aircraft and Flight Details

The aircraft involved, registered VT-ANB, was an 11-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. It had its first flight on December 14, 2013, and was delivered to Air India on January 28, 2014.

Government Reactions

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words.” He assured that authorities are working to assist those affected.

• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the crash “devastating” and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

The crash has raised concerns about the safety of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, as this is the first fatal crash involving this aircraft model since its introduction in 2011. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash, with both Indian and international aviation authorities involved.