A catastrophic air disaster struck Ahmedabad city on Thursday afternoon when the Air India Flight AI171 headed for London Gatwick crashed into a residential area shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 787’s Dreamliner carried 245 people, including 233 passengers and a crew of 12, swooped into the Megani Nagar neighborhood, swirling flames and thick black smoke into the sky.
A few seconds after takeoff
Flight AI171 departs from Sardarvarabab Hypatel International Airport 1:38pm Local time. Preliminary flight data shows that the aircraft reached altitude only 625 feet Before losing contact with air traffic control. At an instant, it went off the course, bumping into a pack of buildings, causing a huge fireball.
Witnesses described the terrifying scene as the plane descended unnaturally low before the impact. “There was a deafening roar and then everything shaking,” said local resident Rajiev Kumar. “The sky was burning.”
Emergency response
Local emergency services responded within minutes. at least Seven Fire Engines Several ambulances were then sent to the scene, where the crew fought the flames and searched for survivors. The area is closed to promote rescue operations.
Officials have yet to confirm the number of casualties, but sources say the deaths are “highly likely.” The status of the survivors, if any, remains unknown at this time.
Government and airline reactions
India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarap, has issued a statement confirming the crash and expressing deep concern. “We are closely monitoring the situation and doing everything we can to support the rescue efforts,” he said.
Air India has activated emergency response protocols and is working with authorities to contact the families of those on board. “This is a tragic day for all of us,” said Natara Janchandra Sekaran, chairman of TATA Group, which owns Air India. “Our idea is the passengers, the crew and their loved ones.”
Ongoing investigation
Director of the Civil Aviation Bureau (DGCA) We have started a full investigation into the cause of the crash. A black box recovery operation is underway, and the team is analyzing technical data such as weather, fuel systems and mechanical performance.
Experts should be aware that this will happen The first fatal crash including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner This is the first time since the introduction of commercial services in 2011.
Countries that are shocked
The tragedy has shaken up the country and the international community. British authorities coordinate with Indian officials to identify and assist British citizens who may have boarded the ship.
Messages of sympathy are poured from all over the world as families await the news with concern. The Indian Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the site later today.
Updated later as the story develops
