New Delhi: An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner (Flight No. AI 171) crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025 afternoon, killing more than 241 people.

The aircraft, bound for London, plunged into the Meghani area of the city, sending up a massive plume of black smoke and triggering an immediate emergency response. Many are feared dead after the plane crashed into the residential quarters of doctors from BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad’s Meghani Nagar area and burst into flames.

Shocked and saddened

In a Statement by Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, Congress Parliamentary Party, she said, “I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the families of the passengers and the crew. The visuals are most heart-wrenching. The entire country is overtaken by grief and is praying.”

Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge’s Tweet: He said, “Absolutely shocked to know about the devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where several passengers and crew members were on board. It’s heart-wrenching to see the horrific visuals.

Our heartfelt sympathies, thoughts and prayers with the families of the passengers, pilot and the crew. I urge Congress leaders and workers to provide all assistance and support to the victims and their loved ones.” Leader of Opposition Shri Rahul Gandhi also Tweeted and said, “The Ahmedabad Air India crash is heartbreaking.

The pain and anxiety the families of the passengers and crew must be feeling is unimaginable. My thoughts are with each one of them in this incredibly difficult moment. Urgent rescue and relief efforts by the administration are critical - every life matters, every second counts. Congress workers must do everything they can to help on the ground.”