The aircraft crashed into the Meghani locality, prompting an extensive emergency response; authorities are yet to confirm casualties.
An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London crashed moments after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon, resulting in immediate emergency operations. The incident occurred in the densely populated Meghani area of Ahmedabad, with thick smoke visible from kilometers away.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reported that the flight, identified as AI171, had 242 individuals on board, including 230 passengers, two pilots, and 10 cabin crew members. The plane was captained by Sumeet Sabharwal, with first officer Clive Kundar assisting.
Eyewitnesses described the aircraft descending rapidly, followed by a massive explosion due to the extensive fuel load required for the transcontinental journey. Emergency services, including multiple fire brigades and ambulances, were swiftly dispatched to the scene to undertake rescue efforts.
“Our immediate focus is on rescuing survivors and managing the situation on the ground. Preliminary reports indicate significant structural damage, but we are yet to confirm the number of casualties,” said a senior police official overseeing the operation. Authorities reported that a significant portion of the crash site had already been cleared by emergency responders.
Air India issued a preliminary statement confirming the incident involving flight AI171, stating, “We are gathering detailed information and providing full support to emergency services and the affected families.” Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed his deep condolences and assured the public that the airline was committed to assisting those affected by the tragedy.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel conveyed his condolences and confirmed immediate deployment of resources for rescue and relief efforts. He also announced the establishment of a medical green corridor to facilitate swift hospital transportation for injured survivors.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached out to Chief Minister Patel, Gujarat State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and Ahmedabad’s Police Commissioner, assuring central government support.
The United Kingdom government, responding to the crash involving British nationals aboard the flight, stated, “We are closely coordinating with Indian authorities to urgently ascertain details and provide necessary assistance.”
The crash has temporarily halted operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, prompting airport authorities to advise passengers to seek updates from airlines before planning their travel.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has instructed Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu to visit Ahmedabad immediately and ensure comprehensive support and relief for the victims.
A high-level investigation team led by the Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is en route to Ahmedabad to ascertain the crash’s cause and recommend preventive measures.
Prominent industrialist Gautam Adani expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating on social media, “Our deepest sympathies go out to the families impacted by this tragic event. We stand committed to assisting in every possible way.”