🚨 Tragedy Strikes Minutes After Takeoff
In a devastating aviation disaster, an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport this afternoon. The flight, AI171, was carrying 242 people including passengers and crew.
Eyewitnesses described a loud explosion followed by a fireball and thick black smoke as the aircraft came down in the Meghaninagar area, just outside the airport perimeter.
📉 What Happened?
- The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner took off at 1:38 PM IST.
- Within minutes, the pilots issued a MAYDAY call citing technical issues.
- Radar contact was lost at a low altitude of around 625 feet.
- The plane reportedly struck a structure near the runway and crashed in a nearby locality.
👥 Casualties & Rescue Efforts
Initial reports suggest at least 50 fatalities, but the exact number is yet to be officially confirmed. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to search for survivors amidst the debris and fire.
🔹 Emergency Services on Ground:
- Over 90 NDRF personnel
- 7 fire tenders
- Dozens of ambulances and local police units
- Airport operations temporarily suspended
🏛️ Government & Air India Response
Air India confirmed the crash and has activated its emergency response team. A helpline has been set up for the families of passengers.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Home Minister Amit Shah have taken stock of the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed and expressed deep concern.
🔍 Investigation Underway
The DGCA and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have begun an official probe. Investigators are focusing on potential mechanical failure, impact dynamics, and flight data recorders.
Experts say this is the first major crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its introduction.
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