In a devastating incident on Thursday afternoon, Air India Flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, sending shockwaves across the country and around the world.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner reportedly lost contact with air traffic control minutes after departure, around 1:17 PM IST, before crashing in the Meghani Nagar area, just northeast of the airport. Emergency services, including fire brigades and disaster response teams, rushed to the scene amid plumes of thick black smoke rising from the crash site.
According to preliminary reports, the flight was carrying between 230 and 242 passengers and crew. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing, with the airport temporarily shut down to allow emergency responders full access to the affected area.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
Local residents described a scene of chaos and horror. “We heard a loud explosion, and within seconds, we saw flames and smoke. People rushed out from their homes, screaming,” said Ramesh Patel, a resident near the crash site.
Multiple ambulances and firefighting vehicles were seen working amid the wreckage. Officials have not yet released details regarding casualties, but unconfirmed sources suggest the possibility of significant loss of life. Hospitals in the vicinity have been put on high alert.
Government and Airline Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via social media, saying:
“Deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Prayers for the victims and their families. The government is closely monitoring rescue operations.”
Air India issued a brief statement: “We are aware of the incident involving Flight AI171. Our thoughts are with those affected. We are cooperating fully with authorities and have dispatched teams to the site.”
Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash remains unclear. Aviation experts have noted that the aircraft involved was relatively new and had a strong safety record. The DGCA has launched a formal investigation and has contacted Boeing and UK authorities for assistance.
Flight data and cockpit voice recorders (commonly known as the “black boxes”) are being searched for and will be crucial in determining the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.