Ahmedabad – The aviation industry is reeling from the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport this afternoon. Carrying 242 people, including 232 passengers and 10 crew members, the aircraft was bound for London Gatwick when it plunged into a medical college hostel, claiming the lives of five students.
According to reports, the aircraft struggled to gain altitude and sent out a mayday call before losing communication. A video capturing the moments before impact shows the plane flying dangerously low before erupting into flames upon collision at 1:38 PM local time. Initial recovery efforts have found 30 to 35 bodies, with more individuals feared trapped.
Passenger Demographics and Response Efforts
The flight carried 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals. In response to the tragedy, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu is overseeing the emergency measures, ensuring swift coordination between aviation and rescue agencies.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) revealed that the flight was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an experienced pilot with 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of experience. Their last communication was a distress call moments before the crash.
Investigation and Support Measures
Authorities have launched an in-depth investigation into the incident, focusing on mechanical failures, pilot responses, and environmental conditions. The Aviation Safety Network confirms that this marks the first crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since the model’s commercial introduction.
Air India has established a passenger assistance hotline (1800 5691 444) for affected families. Additionally, a help desk has been set up outside Ahmedabad airport to provide information and support to the relatives of those onboard.
