A tragic air disaster has struck a passenger jet with 240 people on board has crashed just moments after takeoff. The flight, en route from India to London, never made it far before it plunged from the sky, cutting short what was meant to be a hopeful journey.
Tragedy in the Skies: Air India Flight Crashes Minutes After Takeoff
An Air India passenger jet carrying 242 people has crashed just five minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad, in western India. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, plunged into a densely populated residential area known as Meghani Nagar on Thursday afternoon, leaving behind a scene of devastation and heartbreak.
The exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, but India’s Health Minister, Jagat Prakash Nadda, stated that “many people were killed” in the crash. Emergency crews are on site, with the injured being rushed to nearby hospitals.
Air India confirmed the disaster in a statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in an accident today shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed at 13:38 hrs carrying 242 passengers and crew members—169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens.”
India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident:
“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have instructed all aviation and emergency response agencies to act swiftly and in coordination. Rescue teams have been mobilized and all efforts are underway to provide medical aid and relief.”
As smoke still lingers above the wreckage and families await news of their loved ones, the nation mourns a journey that ended in unspeakable loss—one more painful reminder of how quickly life can be turned upside down.
Air India Flight 171 Crash: Leaders Respond to Devastating Tragedy
As rescue efforts continue at the crash site in Meghani Nagar, heartfelt messages of grief and solidarity have poured in from national leaders and airline officials.
India’s Aviation Minister, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, expressed his deep condolences, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.” His message followed a pledge of full government support in mobilizing emergency response teams and ensuring medical aid reaches the victims without delay.
Air India’s Chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, also publicly addressed the tragedy in a statement shared with BBC News:
“With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a tragic accident today.”
He added that the airline is coordinating closely with authorities and emergency services to support affected families and investigate the cause of the crash.
The Boeing 787-8, carrying 242 people—169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian—crashed just five minutes after takeoff, devastating a residential neighborhood and sending shockwaves across two continents.
The full extent of the casualties is still unknown, but officials have warned of significant loss of life. As the world watches with heavy hearts, this tragedy stands as a painful reminder of the fragility of human life—and the shared grief that transcends borders.
“Our heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of all those affected by this tragic event,” he said. “Right now, our top priority is to support everyone impacted and provide comfort to their families during this incredibly difficult time.”
“We are fully mobilized to assist the emergency response teams at the crash site and are committed to delivering all necessary aid and care to those in need,” the statement continued. “As we receive verified updates, they will be shared accordingly. An emergency response centre has been activated, and dedicated support teams are in place to assist families seeking information.”
