At least 133 people were killed after an Air India Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating as flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed near Meghaninagar area close to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon.
The crash occurred at 1:17 PM, shortly after takeoff. Onboard the aircraft were 232 passengers and 10 crew members, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian, according to a statement from Air India.
Eyewitnesses reported a deafening explosion followed by a massive plume of black smoke billowing from Dharpur near Meghaninagar. Local residents and emergency services rushed to the site in an attempt to rescue survivors.
The fire brigade, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police have been deployed at the crash site. Several of the injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals. Air India confirmed that emergency response teams are actively engaged in evacuation and relief operations.
A dedicated helpline number – 1800 5691 444 – has been set up by Air India for families seeking information about their loved ones.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in close contact with key officials since the incident. He personally spoke with Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, directing them to visit Ahmedabad and ensure all possible assistance is extended to victims and their families.
“The Prime Minister has directed that rescue operations be prioritised and that the best possible medical aid be given to the injured,” a government statement said.
Home Minister Amit Shah also held discussions with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to coordinate on-ground support.
Air India, in a statement posted on social media platform X, confirmed the crash and said it is cooperating fully with the authorities investigating the cause of the disaster. “We are deeply saddened and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” the airline said.
As of now, the cause of the crash remains unknown. Aviation experts and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are expected to begin a formal probe soon.
