An Air India passenger aircraft en route from Ahmedabad, Gujarat to London, UK, crashed shortly after takeoff near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, slamming into a doctors’ hostel building in a densely populated area. The tragic incident has claimed the lives of more than 200 people, with several others injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
According to Indian media reports, Air India Flight AI-171 was carrying 230 people, including 12 crew members, when it took off for London. The aircraft encountered trouble during takeoff and went down within minutes, causing a devastating fire and massive destruction at the crash site.
The Guardian quoted Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanan Desai confirming that over 200 passengers have been killed in the crash. Emergency response teams and firefighters arrived swiftly at the scene to initiate rescue operations.
The Times of India reported that one passenger—seated on 11A—has miraculously survived and is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.
India’s Federal Health Minister confirmed “many fatalities” in the disaster. Rescue workers have so far recovered 30 bodies from the rubble, but dozens are believed to still be trapped inside the building that was hit.
According to initial reports, the aircraft was carrying 242 people in total, including 217 adults and 11 children. Nationalities among the passengers include 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. Notably, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also reportedly on board.
Authorities have stated that the chances of finding more survivors are extremely slim, though rescue efforts continue. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Air India and civil aviation authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement.
