A Boeing aircraft was originally supposed to make the flight but it developed engine trouble and was replaced with a Sud Aviation Caravelle.

The crew of Flight 171 immediately turned back to attempt an emergency landing on Bombay Airport's runway 09.

With its undercarriage down approximately 1,000 yards (3,000 ft; 910 m) from the end of the runway and while at an altitude of 300 feet (91 m), the aircraft suffered a loss of control and plummeted into the ground.

[4] Indian actress Rani Chandra died in the accident while actor Jeetendra had planned to board the airliner but cancelled.

After reaching the airport, he realised that the flight was late and decided to go back home to help his wife break her fast.