Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight Crashes Shortly After Takeoff from Ahmedabad
Emergency Response Activated Following Plane Crash
New Delhi: An Air India flight bound for London, carrying over 200 passengers, tragically crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday, prompting a significant emergency response. The incident took place near the Meghaninagar area of the city.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu to discuss the crash and assess the situation.
The Minister informed the Prime Minister that he was heading to Ahmedabad to oversee the rescue and relief efforts.
Modi instructed the Minister to ensure that all necessary assistance is provided immediately and requested regular updates on the evolving situation.
All relevant agencies are currently on high alert, coordinating their efforts to manage the crisis.
Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed his shock regarding the incident. He stated, “I am devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action,” he shared on X.
He further mentioned that rescue teams have been dispatched to the crash site. “We are making every effort to ensure that medical aid and relief support are provided immediately. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone on board and their families,” Kinjarapu added.
Rammohan Naidu, who was in Vijayawada for the NDA Government's first anniversary events, immediately left for Ahmedabad upon hearing the news of the crash.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Minister cut short his engagements and is now on his way to personally oversee the ground response. He is in constant communication with senior officials from the DGCA, AAI, NDRF, and the Gujarat State administration to ensure a prompt and coordinated response.
Rescue and medical teams are currently at the site, prioritizing passenger safety and emergency response.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, expressed his sorrow, stating, “With profound sadness, I confirm that Air India flight AI 171, operating from Ahmedabad to London-Gatwick, was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
He emphasized that their primary focus is on supporting those impacted and assisting emergency response teams at the site.
Further updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available. An emergency center has been established, and a support team is available for families seeking information.
Dramatic images from the crash site revealed thick clouds of grey smoke rising into the sky, visible from several kilometers away, including parts of Vastrapur. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic and confusion as emergency sirens echoed and local residents gathered at a distance.
Firefighters, local police, and emergency medical teams were among the first responders on the scene. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been deployed to assist with rescue and relief operations.
Officials have yet to disclose the number of casualties or the cause of the crash. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency teams to operate without obstruction.