An Air India flight heading from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday near Meghaninagar, close to the Ahmedabad airport. The flight, AI 171, was carrying 242 people, including two pilots and ten cabin crew.
Before the crash, the pilot made a mayday call (an emergency distress signal) to Air Traffic Control, but no further communication came from the aircraft after that. Thick black smoke rose from the crash site as emergency teams and fire services rushed in.
Tragically, the plane fell outside the airport’s boundary soon after it took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM. The aircraft was flown by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had over 8,000 hours of flying experience, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours of experience.
Among the passengers was Vijay Rupani, former Chief Minister of Gujarat and current Punjab BJP in-charge. Authorities have not yet confirmed his condition.
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep shock and has rushed to Ahmedabad, stating that rescue operations are in full swing. He assured that all emergency and aviation teams are working together to provide immediate help to the passengers.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also spoken to Gujarat officials and assured full central government support.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has ordered urgent relief and treatment for the injured. Hospitals near the area have been put on high alert to treat survivors.
A team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is investigating the crash. A passenger helpline has been set up at 1800 5691 444 for families and friends of those on board.
This is a developing story, and more updates are expected as rescue operations continue.
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