Tragic Air India Flight Crash: Army Mobilizes for Rescue Efforts Near Ahmedabad
Swift Army Response to Air India Flight Disaster
New Delhi: Following the unfortunate crash of an Air India flight near Ahmedabad, the Indian Army has swiftly deployed around 130 personnel to assist with ongoing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, as confirmed by an official on Thursday.
This military involvement highlights a well-coordinated civil-military effort aimed at preserving lives and stabilizing the situation post-disaster.
As part of the emergency response, engineering teams equipped with JCBs and heavy machinery have been activated for quick debris removal. These teams are collaborating closely with local authorities to clear access routes and search for potential survivors trapped beneath the wreckage.
Medical teams, including Army doctors and paramedics, have also been sent to the crash site to deliver immediate medical assistance.
In addition to medical and engineering support, Quick Action Teams (QATs) trained for rapid response scenarios, including search and rescue operations, have been deployed. Fire-fighting equipment, including extinguishers and water bowsers, has been brought in to manage any flare-ups from aviation fuel or residual fires.
Moreover, the Military Hospital is on standby due to the critical nature of the situation and the chaos caused by the crash.
The Army's quick response aligns with standard operating procedures for HADR missions, focusing on saving lives, providing relief, and aiding civil authorities during large-scale emergencies.
While the precise cause of the crash remains unknown, a thorough investigation is anticipated. In the meantime, rescue and recovery efforts are the top priorities, with the Army reaffirming its commitment to support the Gujarat state government and central authorities.
An Air India flight destined for London crashed near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying approximately 242 passengers, including 10 crew members.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, recognized for its advanced technology and fuel efficiency, has faced various technical and safety challenges globally over the years.
Although the Dreamliner is widely utilized for long-haul international flights and is regarded as a modern and efficient aircraft, it has a history of safety concerns.
In 2013, the global fleet of Dreamliners was grounded due to incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires, including one on a parked Japan Airlines jet in Boston and another mid-air emergency in Japan.
These events prompted the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to halt Dreamliner operations until Boeing redesigned the battery system.
In 2024, Boeing faced renewed scrutiny after whistleblower Sam Salehpour, an engineer at the company, reportedly informed the US Senate about structural issues in the Dreamliner’s fuselage.
He alleged that small gaps and improper assembly could lead to premature wear and potential structural failure. The FAA has initiated an investigation, which is still ongoing.
Despite being marketed as one of the safest and most advanced aircraft, the Dreamliner has been associated with several technical faults.