Air India Flight AI 171 Crashes in Ahmedabad Minutes After Takeoff: Rescue Ops Underway

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 12, 2025

In a tragic aviation incident, Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed into the Meghani Nagar residential area in Ahmedabad minutes after takeoff on June 12, 2025, leaving behind thick plumes of smoke and widespread panic. The flight was bound for London Gatwick and carried 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

What Happened?

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft took off from Runway 23 of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM IST. Within moments, the pilots issued a MAYDAY distress call. However, air traffic control (ATC) received no response after that.

The aircraft — tail number VT-ANB — crashed just outside the airport perimeter, in the densely populated Meghani Nagar locality. Capt. Sumit Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, was in command, accompanied by co-pilot Clive Kunder, who had logged 1,100 hours.

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Tentative Timeline of Events:

Time (IST) Event
1:38 PM AI 171 cleared for takeoff from Runway 23
1:39 PM Aircraft becomes airborne; MAYDAY call sent
1:41 PM Communication lost with aircraft
1:42 PM Aircraft crashes near Meghani Nagar, approx. 2 km from the airport
1:45 PM onwards Thick smoke observed; fire services dispatched
2:00 PM Initial casualties feared; evacuation begins
3:30 PM Air India confirms crash via official statement
Evening Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and Home Minister Amit Shah briefed

Crash Site & Emergency Response

Residents of Meghani Nagar reported a massive explosion and intense flames engulfing nearby homes. Local authorities, NDRF teams, fire brigades, and medical responders rushed to the spot. At least 50 fatalities are suspected, though official numbers are still awaited as rescue teams continue to clear the debris.

Nearby hospitals have been placed on high alert, with a disaster response protocol activated. Multiple ambulances are ferrying the injured to civil hospitals across the city.

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Aircraft & Crew

  • Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

  • Registration: VT-ANB

  • Flight Route: Ahmedabad to London Gatwick (AI 171)

  • Pilot in Command: Capt. Sumit Sabharwal (8,200 hrs)

  • Co-Pilot: Clive Kunder (1,100 hrs)

  • Passengers: 230

  • Crew: 12

Official Statements

“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest,”
– Air India, on social platform X

The DGCA and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a joint investigation into the crash. Authorities are examining black box data, maintenance records, and ATC logs.

Government Action

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Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Home Minister Amit Shah are overseeing emergency measures. A helpline for affected families is being set up by Air India and the Gujarat government. Additional NDRF units are en route.

Aviation Safety Implications

This incident marks a rare and deeply tragic moment in India's aviation history and is believed to be the first-ever crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since the model entered service in 2009. The crash raises pressing questions about emergency communication protocols, technical inspection routines, and aircraft performance post takeoff.

HospitalityNews joins the nation in mourning and extends deepest condolences to all affected. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Image & Video Credit: [Photographer/Agency Name] via [Platform, e.g., X/Twitter or Getty Images]


Unlock Europe’s Hidden Gems with VIT Incoming

Unlock Europe’s Hidden Gems with VIT Incoming

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 8, 2025

Planning a seamless, unforgettable trip doesn’t have to be stressful. At VIT Travel, they craft meaningful journeys across Italy, France, Belgium, and Luxembourg — managing every detail from start to finish.

Smart Journeys

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Signature itineraries that blend handpicked stays with immersive, cultural experiences — crafted for the sophisticated explorer.

Private Chauffeurs & Driver-Guides

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Luxury transfers with English-speaking chauffeurs and expert driver-escorts who bring destinations to life with insight and charm.

Wine Days

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From vineyard to glass — explore Italy’s family-run wineries with guided tastings and rich storytelling.

Villas with Character

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A curated collection of elegant villas in Tuscany, Apulia, Amalfi, Provence & Côte d’Azur — perfect for clients seeking space, style, and soul.

Authentic Hotels

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Handpicked boutique hotels that reflect local charm, cultural depth, and heartfelt hospitality.

Weddings & Events

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From stunning venues to flawless execution — VIT Incoming ensures destination weddings and events are effortlessly beautiful.

Private Concerts & Music Access

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Through exclusive partnerships, clients gain access to world-class performances and private concerts for an unforgettable cultural touch.

Why Choose VIT Incoming?

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  • Local Expertise
  • End-to-End Management
  • Customised Experiences
  • On-Ground Support

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Let’s create something unforgettable together. Reach out today to plan your clients' next extraordinary European journey.


The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom Emerges as Top Rising Spiritual Tourism Destination in Sarnath

The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom Emerges as Top Rising Spiritual Tourism Destination in Sarnath

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 7, 2025

In the serene landscape of Sarnath, just behind the historic Chaukhandi Stupa, a new spiritual landmark is rising to national and global prominence—The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom. Fast becoming one of India’s top emerging destinations for spiritual tourism, this thoughtfully designed garden offers a unique blend of mindfulness, art, and cultural insight, deeply rooted in Buddhist and Indian philosophy.

More than just a tranquil garden, it’s a space for contemplation, learning, and connection. Through art installations, educational galleries, and serene landscapes, the Garden brings ancient teachings to life in a way that is both accessible and visually captivating. Visitors are invited to slow down and explore the timeless wisdom of India’s spiritual heritage in a format that is engaging and deeply peaceful.

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The visionary behind this initiative is Umesh Mathur, Chief Functionary of Foundation For Learning Technologies, an NGO committed to promoting spiritual learning through videos, books, and cultural experiences. “Evenings in summers are the perfect time to visit the Garden,” says Mathur. “The serene atmosphere, combined with the warmth of the season, allows for deep reflection and an uplifting spiritual experience.”

The Garden includes various themed sections, such as:

  • The Gallery of Indian Philosophy

  • Buddhist Philosophy Zone

  • The Journey of the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path

  • An Ayurvedic Plant Display, showcasing traditional herbs and their healing wisdom

Among the highlights is the Ayurvedic Garden, which brings together herbs from across India. Ayurveda, the country’s ancient system of natural healing, is represented here not just as a medical science but as a way of living in harmony with nature and inner balance.

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Located just minutes away from the iconic Dhamek Stupa, the Garden adds a meaningful, interactive layer to any visit to Sarnath. Whether you are a pilgrim, a wellness traveler, or simply a seeker of peace, this evolving sanctuary offers a deep spiritual resonance and a modern-day reminder of ancient truths.

As the world turns to mindfulness and wellness for balance, the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom stands as a shining symbol of India’s enduring spiritual legacy—inviting all to explore, reflect, and reconnect.


The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Unveils 'Luminara' – A Masterpiece of Luxury at Sea

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Unveils 'Luminara' – A Masterpiece of Luxury at Sea

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 2, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has revealed exciting new details about its third ultra-luxury superyacht, Luminara, ahead of its July 2025 debut. Promising a transformative experience at sea, Luminara will offer immersive itineraries, world-class dining, museum-worthy art, and meticulously designed interiors—all starting with its maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome.

Following successful sea trials, Luminara is now prepped for an ambitious sailing calendar. The yacht will introduce Ritz-Carlton’s first-ever journeys to Asia and Alaska, offering guests a broader spectrum of destinations and deeper experiences of exploration.

“With Luminara, we’ve raised the bar once again,” said Ernesto Fara, President of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “This superyacht opens the door to new destinations and deeper guest experiences, reinforcing our commitment to thoughtful exploration and continuous innovation across the fleet.”

Stretching 794 feet and accommodating 452 guests across 226 ocean-facing suites, Luminara lives up to its name—meaning "light" in Latin—through soft tones, sculptural lighting, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Designs by Chapi Design and AD Associates blend walnut wood, Arabescato Corchia marble, and rich textiles, while each suite comes with a private terrace and bespoke furnishings by design houses like Minotti and Poltrona Frau.

Guests will be treated to 731 art pieces onboard, 65% of which are specially commissioned. The collection celebrates the spirit of yachting and Malta’s heritage, with works by iconic artists such as Paul Klee, Matisse, and Andy Warhol. A seven-story light sculpture in the atrium adds dramatic flair to the experience.

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On the culinary front, Michelin-starred chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina will lead signature dining venues. Seta su Luminara will offer an 8-course Venetian-inspired menu, while Beach House will feature bold Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Additional options like Azur, Haesu Bit, and Mistral will round out the gourmet journey.

Bars include the stylish new Art Bar, where craft cocktails meet Cycladic art, and sea views elevate every toast. The yacht also features a floating marina with a central pool, water sports, and direct sea access. Wellness takes center stage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, offering Asian-inspired treatments and products from ESPA, 111SKIN, and Pisterzi.

In retail, Luminara partners with luxury icons like Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, and Piaget—making their first appearance at sea—along with curated selections of apparel, accessories, and vintage finds.

After sailing the Mediterranean, Luminara will explore Africa and the Indian Ocean before beginning Asia-Pacific itineraries in late 2025. Highlights include stops in Vietnam’s Hạ Long Bay, Japan’s Osaka, and Thailand’s Bangkok. By summer 2026, the yacht will head to Alaska and Canada, offering intimate access to the region’s wild beauty.

With bookings now open, Luminara is set to become a new benchmark in oceanic luxury, blending The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service with adventurous itineraries and transformative experiences at sea.

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