United in Grief: DMET Club Mourns with the Nation After Air India Flight AI171 Tragedy

Today, our hearts are heavy as we grapple with the devastating news of the Air India flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad. What began as a routine journey from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick ended in tragedy just minutes after takeoff, leaving the entire nation—and our global DMET community—deeply shocked and saddened.

The Incident: Official Statement from DGCA

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) released the following statement:

Accident to M/s Air India B787 aircraft VT-ANB on 12.06.2025 at Ahmedabad. On 12th June, 2025, M/s Air India B787 Aircraft VT-ANB, operating flight AI-171 (Ahmedabad to Gatwick), crashed immediately after takeoff from Ahmedabad.

There were 242 persons on board the aircraft, consisting of 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew. The aircraft was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar.

Capt Sumeet Sabharwal is an LTC with 8200 hours of experience; the co-pilot had 1100 hours of flying experience.As per ATC, the aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1339 IST (0809 UTC) from runway 23. It gave a MAYDAY call to ATC, but thereafter no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC.

The aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site.

Remembering the Crew and Passengers

Onboard were 230 passengers, two pilots, and ten dedicated cabin crew members—each with families, stories, and dreams. At DMET Club, we wish to honour their memory, and especially acknowledge the crew who did all they could in those final moments. Our thoughts go out to Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, First Officer Clive Kundar, and every member of the cabin crew for their courage and professionalism.

A Special Solidarity: Cabin Crew and the DMET Family

This tragedy strikes a personal chord with our DMET community. Many DMETians’ spouses and family members serve as cabin crew, dedicating themselves to the safety and comfort of countless travellers. We know firsthand the commitment, resilience, and quiet strength it takes to serve in the skies. Today, we stand in unwavering solidarity with our cabin crew brothers and sisters, and their families. Your courage does not go unnoticed, and your loss is deeply felt by all of us.

Collective Mourning and Support

In moments of disaster, it is the power of community that provides hope and healing. Across Ahmedabad, we witnessed first responders, residents, and volunteers come together in extraordinary ways to support rescue and relief efforts. We urge everyone to show the same unity—by offering prayers, emotional support, and tangible help to affected families.

The pain of this tragedy is immeasurable, but we must ensure that none of the families walk this difficult road alone. Let us come together to offer every possible comfort and resource to the bereaved.

Moving Forward, Together

As investigations continue and more details emerge, we request all our members and readers to follow official updates and respect the privacy of those affected. Let us keep the memories of those lost alive through acts of kindness and solidarity.

May the departed souls rest in peace. May those left behind find strength in our collective prayers and actions. DMET Club stands ready to support, today and always.

With deepest condolences and in unwavering solidarity, On behalf of the entire DMET Club fraternity