PM Modi Declares National Mourning After Ahmedabad Air India Crash; Flights Suspended as Rescue Operations Continue

June 12, 2025 — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared a national day of mourning following the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI 171, which went down shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Wednesday afternoon.As a precaution and to support ongoing emergency operations, all flights at Ahmedabad airport have been temporarily suspended until further notice, authorities announced.The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying 242 passengers and crew on a scheduled flight to London Gatwick when it crashed into a densely populated residential area in Meghani Nagar, just minutes after takeoff. The crash triggered a large-scale emergency response involving local police, fire services, and national disaster teams.In a statement issued from New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and pledged full government support for the rescue and recovery effort.“I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in this tragic incident. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those injured. The government will extend all necessary assistance,” the Prime Minister said.The national day of mourning will see flags flown at half-mast across India, and official entertainment and public functions have been suspended as a mark of respect for the victims.Air India and civil aviation authorities are coordinating with local and international agencies to identify the deceased and assist their families. Initial reports suggest the crash may have been caused by a possible loss of thrust or engineering failure, though a formal investigation is underway.The tragedy has sparked widespread shock across India and abroad, with multiple international passengers reportedly among those on board. The exact number of casualties and survivors remains unconfirmed as rescue operations continue at the crash site.Ahmedabad airport officials have advised passengers to check with their airlines regarding flight cancellations and delays, as the airport is expected to remain closed through at least the next 24 hours.