An Air India passenger plane enroute to London with 242 passengers onboard crashed Thursday in India’s western city of Ahmedabad . Reports by aviation officials revealed in what the airline called a “tragic accident”.
Air India’s flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff, officials said.
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India’s aviation minister stated that he was “shocked and devastated” by the crash in Ahmedabad, where an AFP journalist saw thick black smoke over the airport.
Reports by India’s civil aviation regulator confirmed that two pilots and ten cabin staff members were among the “242 person on board”.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the Air India aircraft “crashed immediately after takeoff” after issuing a mayday call.
The plane crashed outside the airport’s boundary, according to the civil aviation authorities.
About eight million people live in Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat state in India, and the crowded airport is encircled by crowded neighbourhoods.
Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, the minister of aviation, gave the order for “all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”
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“Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site,” he added.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he added
Air India chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran reacting to the incident said, “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad (to) London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today,” Air India chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran said.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event,” said the airline chairman.
An emergency centre has been activated and a support team set up for families seeking information, he added.
