India has witnessed several tragic air accidents over the decades, leading to significant changes in aviation safety protocols. From mid-air collisions to runway overshoots, these incidents have shaped the country's approach to air travel. Here’s a look at some of the most devastating air flight mishaps in Indian history, including the recent Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad.
1. Air India Flight AI171 Crash (2025)
On June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London crashed near Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport just minutes after takeoff. The aircraft was carrying 242 passengers, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani. The crash resulted in 110 fatalities, while 136 passengers were injured. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident, with initial reports suggesting possible technical failure or structural damage.
2. Charkhi Dadri Mid-Air Collision (1996)
The deadliest aviation accident in Indian airspace occurred on November 12, 1996, near Charkhi Dadri, Haryana. A Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 collided mid-air with a Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin IL-76, killing all 349 people aboard both aircraft. The accident was attributed to altitude miscommunication, prompting India to mandate Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) on all commercial aircraft.
3. Air India Express Flight 812, Mangalore (2010)
On May 22, 2010, an Air India Express Boeing 737-800 overshot the tabletop runway at Mangalore International Airport, plunging into a gorge and catching fire. The crash killed 158 of the 166 people onboard. Investigations revealed that the captain continued with the landing despite multiple warnings from the co-pilot and onboard systems.
4. Air India Express Flight 1344, Kozhikode (2020)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, an Air India Express flight from Dubai skidded off the wet tabletop runway at Kozhikode International Airport on August 7, 2020. The aircraft broke into two after falling into a valley, killing 21 people, including both pilots. The tragedy led to increased scrutiny of tabletop airports and landing protocols during adverse weather conditions.
5. Alliance Air Flight 7412, Patna (2000)
On July 17, 2000, an Alliance Air Boeing 737-200 crashed into a residential neighborhood in Patna while attempting to land. The crash killed all six crew members and 49 passengers, along with five people on the ground. Poor visibility, improper descent management, and a stall in the final moments of landing were cited as contributing factors.
6. Indian Airlines Flight IC605, Bangalore (1990)
On February 14, 1990, Indian Airlines Flight IC605 from Mumbai to Bangalore crashed during its final approach due to pilot error. The aircraft touched down too early, skidded, and caught fire, killing 92 people. The tragedy led to enhancements in approach procedures and better runway lighting systems.
7. Air India Flight 855, Arabian Sea (1978)
On January 1, 1978, Air India Flight 855, a Boeing 747, plunged into the Arabian Sea shortly after takeoff from Mumbai. The crash killed all 213 people onboard. Investigators determined that instrument failure and spatial disorientation led to the disaster.
India’s aviation history has been marked by tragic accidents that have led to major safety reforms. The recent Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad has once again raised concerns about aircraft maintenance and emergency response protocols. As investigations continue, authorities aim to implement stricter regulations to prevent future mishaps.