Pune-Based Crew Member Among Those Killed in Tragic Air India Crash in Ahmedabad; Heartbroken Family Awaits Closure

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 13th June 2025: In a tragic incident on Thursday, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in at least 265 fatalities. The casualties include nearly all 242 people on board and several individuals on the ground. Among the deceased was Irfan Samir Shaikh, a Pune-based cabin crew member from the Sant Tukaram Nagar area of Pimpri-Chinchwad.

The flight had a total of 12 crew members, 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew, and 230 passengers. Tragically, all crew members lost their lives in the crash. Only one passenger survived the horrific accident.

Speaking to the media, Irfan’s uncle, Firoz Shaikh, shared that Irfan had been working in the aviation industry for the past few years. He initially worked with Vistara and later joined Air India after the two airlines merged. For the past 6–8 months, he had been assigned to international flights.

“We last met him on Bakri Eid. He had come home for a two-day holiday. That was the last time we saw him,” said Firoz. “He used to speak to his parents every day on the phone.”

Updating on the current situation, Firoz added, “His parents and elder brother have gone to Ahmedabad. They have been there since last night. Irfan is survived by his grandparents, parents, and an elder brother. His brother’s blood sample has been taken for a DNA test. The report is expected in 48–72 hours, after which the authorities will decide whether to hand over the body.”