In a devastating turn of events, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed just after take-off from Ahmedabad airport. The Ahmedabad plane crash occurred at 1:38 PM local time, resulting in a massive explosion and significant loss of life.
Plane Fails to Gain Altitude and Slams into Hostel
Eyewitness videos reveal the aircraft flying unusually low and failing to climb. Within moments, the plane struck a doctor’s hostel linked to a local medical college. The Ahmedabad plane crash left behind scenes of destruction, with debris and fire engulfing the area.
Flight AI 171 Was Headed to London with 242 Onboard
The doomed Air India Flight AI 171, bound for London Gatwick, carried 232 passengers and 10 crew members. Among them were:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British citizens
- 1 Canadian
- 7 Portuguese travelers
Mayday Call Sent Moments Before Crash
Shortly after departure, the pilots sent out a mayday signal. Tragically, no further communication was received by air traffic control. Aviation experts say the Ahmedabad plane crash happened at an altitude of only 825 feet, making recovery impossible.
Massive Emergency Response Underway
Emergency teams rushed to the crash site. Over 24 ambulances responded, and many injured were taken to local hospitals. Police have secured the area and rerouted traffic to allow rescue operations.
Civil Aviation Minister Responds
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated he is personally overseeing the rescue mission. He assured swift and coordinated action from all aviation and emergency departments. “My thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and their families,” he posted on X.
Experienced Pilots Were at the Helm
The plane was flown by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with over 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours of experience. Despite their skill, the aircraft could not overcome the mechanical failure.
Support for Families and Survivors
Air India has activated a dedicated hotline — 1800 5691 444 — for updates and support. Families of those onboard are urged to reach out for assistance and more information.
What Caused the Ahmedabad Plane Crash?
While investigations are still underway, early reports indicate a critical mechanical failure during take-off. Loaded with fuel for the long-haul journey, the explosion on impact was catastrophic.
Final Thoughts: India Mourns One of Its Worst Air Disasters
The Ahmedabad plane crash marks one of the darkest days in Indian aviation. With hundreds of lives lost and many more affected, the country stands in shock and grief.