*TripCheers Travel Insight: Air India Flight AI171 Crash in Ahmedabad – What Travelers Need to Know* On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) at around 1:38 PM IST. The flight, carrying 242 people (230 passengers and 12 crew members, including 169 Indian, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian national), crashed in the Meghaninagar area near the airport, with debris impacting a residential building. Thick black smoke and flames were reported, and emergency services are actively responding. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers. The cause remains under investigation, with initial reports suggesting a possible engineering issue following recent aircraft refurbishment. Ahmedabad airport is closed until further notice, disrupting regional travel. *Travel Impact and Recommendations:* • Flight Disruptions: All operations at SVPIA are suspended, affecting flights to and from Ahmedabad. Travelers should check with airlines for rerouting or cancellations. • Safety Updates: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is probing the crash, focusing on the aircraft’s black box. Await official updates before making travel decisions involving Air India or Ahmedabad. • Regional Awareness: Exercise caution in Ahmedabad’s Meghaninagar area due to ongoing emergency operations and road closures. • *Support for Affected Travelers: Air India is providing updates via their website and X handle (@airindia). Contact the airline for assistance if impacted.*