Ahmedabad: In a heartbreaking incident, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (Flight AI-171), flying from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff today, with all 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, feared dead.
The flight departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport but lost contact within minutes, crashing in the Meghaninagar area, a densely populated locality in the city. The crash triggered a large explosion, with thick black smoke and flames visible from several kilometers away.
The accident occurred around 1:38 PM IST, soon after the aircraft took off from Runway 23. Local residents reported hearing strange engine noises before the plane descended sharply and hit the ground.
Emergency response teams rushed to the scene, including more than a dozen fire trucks, multiple ambulances, and personnel from both BSF and NDRF, with three teams comprising 90 officials deployed for rescue operations, which are ongoing.
Government Officials Take Immediate Action
Upon receiving news of the crash, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu departed for Ahmedabad. Both the central and state administrations have mobilized to coordinate relief and support efforts.
Investigation Underway Though the exact reason behind the crash has yet to be confirmed, preliminary findings suggest a possible technical failure or engine malfunction. The DGCA, along with Air India’s internal technical team, has initiated a thorough investigation.
Nation Grieves the Loss
The incident has sent shockwaves across the country. National leaders, including the Prime Minister and the President, have expressed their condolences to the bereaved families. Special assistance counters have been set up at Ahmedabad and Delhi Airports to provide support and information to relatives of those on board.
