A tragic incident unfolded in Ahmedabad today as Air India flight AI171, operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA). The aircraft, which was headed to London Gatwick, had departed at 1338 IST carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew.
Of the 242 onboard, there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens. The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had logged 8200 hours of flying experience, alongside First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1100 hours.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the flight departed from Runway 23 at 1339 IST (0809 UTC). Shortly after takeoff, the pilots issued a MAYDAY call to Air Traffic Control (ATC), after which no further communication was received. The aircraft tragically crashed outside the airport perimeter, and heavy black smoke was seen rising from the accident site.
Currently, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is non-operational, and all flight operations have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the incident and has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu. The Prime Minister has directed both leaders to go to Ahmedabad to ensure all possible assistance is extended. He has also instructed that he be kept updated on the situation.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, reacting to the incident, tweeted, “Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site.”
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has expressed deep sorrow over the crash and directed state officials to carry out immediate rescue and relief operations. He has instructed for the creation of a green corridor to transport injured passengers to hospitals swiftly and has emphasised ensuring priority treatment at all healthcare facilities.
Three teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising 90 personnel, have been dispatched from Gandhinagar, and an additional three teams are en route from Vadodara to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts.
Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani also expressed condolences via social media, saying, “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground.”
Air India has issued a dedicated passenger hotline number — 1800 5691 444 — for family members and loved ones seeking information regarding those onboard the ill-fated flight.
As investigations begin and emergency teams continue rescue and recovery efforts, the entire nation mourns this devastating loss.
Disclaimer:
The above article is based on currently available official statements and reports. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
