Tragedy struck Ahmedabad today as Air India Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The incident occurred at approximately 1:38 PM local time, sending shockwaves through the city and prompting an immediate emergency response.
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members, totaling 242 individuals on board. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar. The manifest indicates a diverse group of travelers, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals.
Initial reports indicate that the plane crashed in the Meghani area, near a doctor's hostel. Images from the scene depict a grim scenario, with parts of the aircraft embedded in the BJ Medical College UG hostel mess, causing significant damage to the building. The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) reports that students were present in the hostel mess at the time of the crash, raising concerns about injuries to medical staff and students.
Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, and police, swiftly responded to the crash site. A senior police officer stated that efforts are underway to clear the area, with approximately 70-80% already secured. However, the intensity of the fire, fueled by the aircraft's heavy fuel load for the long-haul flight, complicated rescue operations.
The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. Aviation officials have confirmed that the pilots issued a MAYDAY call to Air Traffic Control (ATC) shortly after takeoff, but communication was lost thereafter. The DGCA is expected to launch a formal investigation, potentially with the assistance of a technical team from Boeing.
The crash has prompted responses from both Indian and UK governments. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed his shock and stated that all aviation and emergency response agencies have been directed to take swift action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also spoken with the Civil Aviation Minister, ensuring all necessary support is extended. The UK government acknowledged the incident and is working with local authorities to ascertain the facts and provide support.
Air India has released a statement acknowledging the incident and stating that they are gathering details and will provide updates. An emergency center has been activated, and support teams are being established to assist families seeking information. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has also issued a statement advising passengers to check with their airlines for updates and requesting cooperation as authorities manage the situation.
The crash has sent ripples through the aviation industry, with shares of Boeing declining in pre-market trading. Several political figures have expressed their condolences, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
