Ahmedabad (TheCOWNews Digital) A major aviation disaster struck the city of Ahmedabad on Wednesday when Air India flight AI171, en route to London-Gatwick, crashed into a densely populated residential area just minutes after takeoff, raising fears of large-scale casualties.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner took off from Ahmedabad Airport at 1:38 PM but issued a “Mayday” call shortly after departure. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft lost control and crashed in the Meghani Nagar area, which lies adjacent to the airport. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion, followed by thick plumes of smoke visible for miles.
Onboard were 232 passengers and 12 crew members, including two infants. Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, 52 British nationals, and a Canadian citizen. Eight medical professionals were also reportedly on the flight.
Initial reports suggest the aircraft may have struck a tree during takeoff or experienced a critical technical malfunction. The plane crashed into the IGV apartment complex located between Shahibaug and Naroda, with the front section wedged between several buildings. The high population density of the area has further complicated rescue operations.
Emergency services rushed to the site, with fire trucks, ambulances, and rescue teams arriving swiftly. Fire Officer Jaish Khadia confirmed that efforts to control the blaze began immediately. Several injured individuals were transported to Civil Hospital for treatment, though officials have yet to confirm the number of casualties.
Due to the chaotic scenes and large crowds gathering at the crash site, authorities issued public appeals urging residents to stay away from the area to allow emergency personnel to work efficiently. Roads around the airport have been sealed off.
Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu is en route to Ahmedabad to oversee the situation personally. Meanwhile, Air India confirmed the incident via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London-Gatwick has been involved in an accident. We are assessing the situation and will provide further updates soon.”
A full investigation into the crash has been launched. DGCA, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and other aviation authorities are collecting evidence on-site. Investigators will analyze black box data and other flight records to determine the cause.
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves across India and prompted renewed concerns over aviation safety and emergency preparedness in urban areas.
