Authorities at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital have begun extensive DNA sampling to identify victims of the tragic Air India AI-171 crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed just minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and at least 19 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived.
Rescue and identification operations are ongoing, with local and central government officials, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, coordinating efforts alongside international investigators from the US and UK.
DNA Sampling and Relief Efforts Intensify
In the aftermath of the accident, Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has become the focal point for grieving families seeking answers. With many victims’ bodies charred beyond recognition, authorities have prioritised DNA sampling to ensure accurate identification.
As of Friday morning, 81 bodies had been recovered, and six have been identified and handed over to their families. NDRF Inspector Vinay Kumar reported that seven teams are working around the clock at the crash site and hospital, while volunteers and medical staff provide support to both survivors and the bereaved.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who visited the hospital, stated, “I have instructed the officials to carry out immediate rescue and relief work and arrange for immediate treatment of the injured passengers on a war footing.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah added, “The government will fully support the identification process and ensure the dignified return of the deceased to their loved ones.”
Crash Investigation and Ongoing Questions
The Air India AI-171 crash is now under formal investigation by Indian authorities, with technical teams from the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) joining the probe. According to preliminary reports, the aircraft lost altitude within 33 seconds of takeoff and crashed into the BJ Medical College doctors’ hostel, triggering a massive fire and widespread devastation.
Eyewitnesses described a loud explosion and flames engulfing the hostel building. Aviation experts have suggested possible causes such as mechanical failure, dual engine flame-out, or a bird strike, as the aircraft’s landing gear was still down, which may have contributed to the loss of altitude.
While the aircraft’s digital video recorder has been recovered, the black box remains missing, leaving many questions unanswered. The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced compensation of ₹1 crore for each victim’s family, and the airline has pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
A Nation in Mourning and a Call for Accountability
This tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country and the global Indian diaspora. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a televised address, expressed his condolences and promised a thorough and transparent investigation. International leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have also conveyed their sympathies and offered technical assistance.
The incident has reignited debates about aviation safety standards in India, emergency preparedness at airports, and the need for regular audits of aircraft maintenance. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of grief and solidarity, as well as calls for accountability from Air India and regulatory authorities. The medical community, in particular, is mourning the loss of several young doctors and students who were residing in the hostel struck by the plane.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This heartrending incident underscores the fragility of life and the collective responsibility we share to ensure the safety and well-being of all. The swift response from rescue teams, medical professionals, and volunteers demonstrates the strength of our communities in times of crisis.
However, this tragedy must also serve as a catalyst for lasting change—prompting a renewed commitment to aviation safety, transparent governance, and compassionate support for victims and their families.
The Logical Indian stands in solidarity with those affected and urges authorities to prioritise both accountability and empathy in the days ahead. How can we, as a society, transform our grief into action to build safer skies and more resilient communities for the future?
