Ahmedabad, India – In a catastrophic aviation tragedy, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (Flight AI171) carrying 242 people crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon, killing 241 people. The aircraft was en route to London Gatwick.
Only one passenger, seated in 11A, has survived the crash, officials confirmed.
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Crash Details: Aircraft Slammed Into Hostel After Takeoff
The flight, carrying 232 passengers and 10 crew members, crashed at 1:38 PM IST into a hostel housing medical students, killing at least five students on the ground. The aircraft was fully loaded with fuel, contributing to a massive explosion upon impact.
Videos circulating online show the plane flying unusually low, apparently struggling to gain altitude, before it slammed into the ground and erupted into a fireball. Footage from the hostel reveals debris inside the dining hall, with plates of food left untouched.
Pilot Issued Mayday Call Before Crash
According to officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the pilot, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had over 8,200 flying hours, issued a mayday call shortly after takeoff. The first officer, Clive Kundar, had logged 1,100 flying hours.
However, no further communication was received after the distress call. Aviation experts say the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of just 825 feet before it failed to achieve lift.
Passengers Included Citizens from Multiple Nations
The passenger list included:
- 169 Indians
- 53 British nationals
- 1 Canadian
- 7 Portuguese nationals
The full manifest is currently being reviewed, and efforts are underway to notify families.
Emergency Response and Government Action
Emergency services responded swiftly. Over 24 ambulances were seen rushing to the scene, and injured individuals were taken to local hospitals. Police have cordoned off the area, and traffic has been diverted.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated he is personally monitoring the situation. “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he said on X (formerly Twitter).
Air India has activated an emergency passenger information helpline: 1800 5691 444 for updates and family support.
Visuals From the Scene
Shocking visuals show:
- Charred remains of the aircraft
- Thick black smoke rising into the sky
- Medical teams working through rubble
- Injured people being carried on stretchers
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, focusing on mechanical failure and flight dynamics during takeoff. A team from the DGCA and aviation safety experts is already at the site.
Conclusion: One of India’s Worst Aviation Disasters
The Air India AI171 crash ranks among India’s deadliest aviation disasters. With 241 confirmed fatalities and only one survivor, the nation mourns the immense loss of life.
Authorities continue recovery and investigation efforts while the global community sends condolences to the families of the victims.