London, January 14 - Air India faces a significant legal challenge in the United Kingdom as estates and relatives of some victims from the tragic 2025 plane crash have initiated a lawsuit in London's High Court. The action, filed on December 18, 2025, involves 11 claimants seeking personal injury damages related to the devastating incident involving Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. This UK lawsuit over the Air India 2025 crash marks an escalation in accountability efforts following one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent years, which claimed 260 lives, including 241 passengers and crew on board, plus 19 individuals on the ground.
The crash occurred on June 12, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, as the aircraft was en route to London Gatwick. According to the preliminary report from India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, both engine fuel control switches moved to the CUTOFF position just seconds after liftoff, resulting in a complete loss of thrust. The plane lost altitude rapidly and crashed into a medical college hostel building, leading to a catastrophic explosion and fire. Only one passenger survived the incident, highlighting the severity of the Ahmedabad plane crash that shocked the aviation world.
This London High Court lawsuit against Air India adds to ongoing scrutiny of the incident, with separate legal actions in the United States targeting aircraft manufacturer Boeing and component supplier Honeywell over alleged faults in the fuel switch design. While Air India has provided voluntary compensation to victims' families, the UK proceedings may pursue higher damages under British law, potentially exceeding limits set by international conventions like the Montreal Convention. The case underscores the complexities of cross-border litigation in international aviation tragedies.
As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the Air India 2025 plane crash lawsuit serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact on affected families and the broader aviation industry. Stakeholders await further developments in the High Court, where details of the claims will likely emerge in due course.