New Delhi/Ahmedabad, June 12: In a major aviation tragedy, an Air India flight bound for London’s Gatwick Airport crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, triggering a massive emergency response. The aircraft, carrying 242 people—including two pilots and 10 crew and Ex CM Gujrat Vijay Rupani was also in the flight—went down in a densely populated residential area near Meghaninagar, causing panic and chaos.
Flight AI 171 had departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 pm when it issued a MAYDAY call moments later. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft lost contact with Air Traffic Control soon after takeoff and crashed near IGB Ground, just outside the airport perimeter.
“Thick plumes of smoke and flames were visible as the aircraft fell to the ground shortly after takeoff from Runway 23,” a DGCA official said.
Visuals from the crash site showed extensive damage, debris scattered across the area, and a large fire engulfing the wreckage. Residents reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by tremors and screams.
Emergency services, including the fire brigade, police, medical teams, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been deployed. Rescue operations are ongoing, though the number of casualties and survivors is yet to be confirmed.
Air India identified the pilot in command as Capt Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar assisting. Official statements from the airline and the DGCA are awaited.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, assuring full central support. The crash site has been sealed off to facilitate emergency efforts and prevent crowding.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep shock over the incident. “We are on the highest alert. I’m personally monitoring the situation and have directed aviation and emergency agencies to act swiftly and in coordination,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, though early reports suggest a possible technical failure during ascent.
