A devastating Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad airport has claimed the lives of over 200 people. The incident occurred shortly after the Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating as Flight 171, took off for London Gatwick on Thursday. The aircraft was carrying 242 passengers and crew members when it crashed in a residential area, specifically impacting a medical college hostel during lunch hour.
City Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed to Reuters that 204 bodies had been recovered from the crash site, with the grim possibility that the count includes both passengers and individuals on the ground. Initial reports painted a bleak picture, with some media outlets suggesting no survivors. However, amidst the tragedy, a glimmer of hope emerged as authorities confirmed at least one survivor.
According to Indian news agency ANI, the survivor was found in seat 11A and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital. The survivor has been identified by Indian media as a British national, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. The BBC reported that Mr. Ramesh shared that shortly after takeoff, there was a loud noise before the plane crashed.
The crash site presented a scene of devastation, with smoke billowing and aircraft debris scattered across the area. The tail of the plane was reportedly lodged on top of the building it crashed into.
Flightradar24, an aviation tracking site, indicated that the aircraft issued a "Mayday" call, signaling an emergency, shortly after takeoff. However, communication was lost thereafter. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, is a modern, wide-body, twin-engine passenger plane.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow and shock at the disaster. Air India reported the flight manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. The Times of India quoted the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) as stating the 242 people on board comprised 230 passengers, two pilots, and 10 crew members.
The Guardian reported that the Air India tragedy in Ahmedabad marks the first crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. While airlines have faced engine-related issues with the 787, its safety record has generally been good until now.
Rescue operations were immediately launched, with visuals showing smoke and debris and injured being taken to hospitals. Authorities have asked relatives for DNA samples to help identify the deceased.
