Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad: What Happened
A tragic incident occurred on Thursday afternoon when an Air India flight (AI171) traveling from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after takeoff. The plane, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had 242 people on board, including passengers and crew. It crashed near Meghaninagar, close to the airport premises in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The Crash and Immediate Response
The aircraft took off at 1:39 PM from Runway 23 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Just moments later, it issued a “Mayday” call before crashing near a doctors’ hostel. A large cloud of smoke was seen rising from the site, and emergency teams including police, fire services, and NDRF units quickly reached the location. Rescue operations began immediately, and many of the injured were transported to hospitals for treatment.
Who Were Onboard
According to Air India, the flight was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese nationals. Two pilots and ten crew members were also on the flight. The exact number of casualties and injuries is still being confirmed as rescue efforts continue.
Government’s Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, urging them to visit the crash site and oversee the relief operations. He directed that every possible help be provided to the affected families. Union Minister Naidu has already left for Ahmedabad and is personally monitoring the situation.
Official Statements
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and assured full support to the victims and their families. A helpline number (1800 5691 444) has been activated for passengers’ families to get updates. The DGCA has launched a formal investigation into the cause of the crash.
Flight operations at Ahmedabad airport have been temporarily suspended. Authorities are working continuously to manage the situation, ensure medical support, and investigate the cause of this terrible tragedy.
ALSO READ: DYK THIS Star Actress Underwent 29 Surgeries
