Gujarat, India – An Air India (Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner) international flight AI-171 bound for London tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Thursday morning. The aircraft was carrying 242 passengers, excluding crew members.
According to initial reports from aviation authorities, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control minutes after departure. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the crash site, located near the outskirts of Ahmedabad.
The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and investigations are underway by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India safety teams. Witnesses near the area reported hearing a loud explosion followed by thick smoke rising from the site.
Rescue operations are ongoing, and local hospitals have been put on high alert. While the number of casualties is not yet officially confirmed, sources indicate the possibility of severe fatalities and injuries.
“Deeply anguished by the crash of the Air India flight in Gujarat. My thoughts are with the families of all affected. Rescue operations are underway at full scale.”
Air India has opened emergency helplines for relatives of passengers. Further details are expected as authorities assess the situation. A plane crashed into a hostel housing doctors, killing 15 doctors and interns confirmed at the site. The death toll may rise to as many as 50.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for live updates.
