An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad, Gujarat to Gatwick, London, crashed just minutes after take-off on Thursday. The aircraft had 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. According to radar data, the flight took off at 1:39 PM from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport but developed a technical issue after reaching just 625 feet above sea level. Shortly after, contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC) was lost.
The aircraft crashed minutes after take-off, initially hitting the mess building of BJ Medical College in Meghaninagar and then colliding with the Atulyam Hostel. It burst into flames on impact, scattering debris and thick smoke around the area. The crash caused widespread panic and chaos.
265 Bodies Recovered from Civil Hospital
In a tragic update, Ahmedabad Police confirmed that 265 bodies were brought to the Civil Hospital following the crash. The deceased include not only passengers but also residents of the hostel the plane crashed into.
Death Toll to Be Confirmed After DNA Testing: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that both the Central and Gujarat governments are jointly conducting relief and rescue operations. Among the 242 onboard, only one passenger has been confirmed as a survivor. He added that the final death toll can be confirmed only after DNA tests are completed. Over 1,000 DNA samples may be required and all tests will be conducted in Gujarat.
Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Among the Victims
Gujarat BJP President C.R. Patil confirmed the death of former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani in the crash. He was seated in seat 12 of the business class (Z category). His death has deeply saddened the BJP family along with others affected by the tragedy.
₹1 Crore Compensation Announced for Victims’ Families
Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran expressed deep grief and announced ₹1 crore compensation for the families of those who died in the crash. Tata Group will also bear the full medical expenses of the injured and provide them with necessary support and care.
One Survivor Undergoing Treatment
One passenger, Ramesh Vishwaskumar, has miraculously survived the crash and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital. He told media that a loud explosion followed the crash and flames engulfed the area. “I was taken to the hospital by ambulance. It’s a miracle that I’m alive,” he said.
DNA Sampling for Victim Identification
Due to the severity of the crash and conditions of the bodies, identification will rely on DNA testing. A list of injured passengers has also been released.
Also Read-: Tatkaal Passport in 3 Days Without Police Verification: Know How to Apply and the Charges Involved
Pilot Sent ‘Mayday’ Call Before Crash
Just before the crash, the pilot sent a “Mayday” distress signal to ATC—an emergency message indicating imminent danger to the aircraft and its occupants.
Passengers Included Citizens from Multiple Countries
The passenger list included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian citizen.
Over 100 Personnel Deployed for Rescue Operations
More than 100 personnel from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and CRPF from Gandhinagar were deployed for rescue operations. Teams from NDRF, BSF, and the Indian Army are also involved in the operation.
Air India Releases Helpline Number
Air India has issued a helpline number: 1800 5691 444 for families seeking information.
President and PM Express Grief
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow, calling it a “heart-wrenching tragedy.” She extended condolences and said the entire nation stands with the affected families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X (Twitter) that the tragedy in Ahmedabad has left the nation shocked and heartbroken. He assured that ministers and officials are working closely on providing assistance.
UK PM Expresses Concern
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed concern and sorrow, stating that the crash has caused widespread grief in Britain. Several British citizens were onboard. He described the scenes from Ahmedabad as “devastating” and continues to monitor the situation.
Rahul Gandhi Urges Congress Workers to Help
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also expressed deep sadness and called it a horrifying accident. He extended his sympathies to the victims’ families and urged Congress workers to offer all possible ground-level support, emphasizing the importance of immediate rescue efforts.
This tragic accident has shocked the nation and the world, and recovery efforts are ongoing.