In a catastrophic turn of events, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, triggering an intense rescue operation and a wave of national grief.
What Happened?
At approximately 1:38 PM IST, the Dreamliner lifted off from runway 23 amid standard flying conditions. Within moments, however, the aircraft issued a distress signal as it struggled to gain altitude. Eyewitnesses near the airport described the horrifying moment when the aircraft plunged and exploded into flames near the Meghani Nagar residential area, just 3 kilometers from the airport.
Residents were left shaken as thick smoke engulfed the skyline. The horrifying sight of the Air India Ahmedabad crash has stunned the entire nation, with social media flooded with photos and videos of the burning wreckage.
Aircraft and Occupants
The ill-fated flight was carrying 232 passengers and 12 crew members. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, a long-range wide-body aircraft known for its modern technology and safety record, was performing a regular international route to London Gatwick.
Early reports suggest the aircraft encountered critical mechanical failure or a bird strike, though officials have not confirmed the cause. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
As flames engulfed the wreckage, fire brigades, ambulances, and NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams rushed to the scene. Rescue personnel fought through heat, wreckage, and smoke to extract survivors and victims. Multiple injured passengers have been transported to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, and SVP Hospital.
The Gujarat government activated an emergency protocol. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the crash site and hospitals, while Home Minister Amit Shah assured that all central resources would be mobilized.
Investigation Underway
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have initiated a full-scale probe into the Air India Ahmedabad crash. Investigators are examining flight data recorders (“black boxes”) and assessing whether pilot error, equipment malfunction, or external interference was to blame.
Air India Ahmedabad Crash, in a public statement, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and confirmed it is working closely with government agencies to assist passengers’ families and provide updates.
Reactions from Leaders and the Public
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident “heartbreaking,” offering prayers for the victims and their families. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “Every possible effort is being made to support those affected and understand what went wrong.”
Airline safety experts have also weighed in, emphasizing the need for enhanced technical audits and pre-departure checks, especially for long-haul aircraft departing busy urban airports.
