A tragic aviation accident shook the nation today as Air India flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed near the Meghani area, close to its point of departure. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, sending emergency response teams into immediate action.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft was carrying a total of 242 individuals, including 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members. Among the passengers, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian national, and 7 Portuguese nationals.
The aircraft, a long-haul international flight, was operated by a seasoned crew. It was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar serving as co-pilot. Both pilots were highly experienced and had logged thousands of hours of international flight time, making the sudden crash all the more shocking.
Immediate Emergency Response
Eyewitnesses in the Meghani area reported hearing a loud noise followed by a plume of smoke. Emergency responders, including firefighters, medical teams, and disaster management personnel, were quickly dispatched to the crash site. The area has since been cordoned off to facilitate rescue operations and investigation.
Initial reports suggest the aircraft may have encountered a technical fault shortly after takeoff, but the exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined. The DGCA, in coordination with Air India and international aviation safety bodies, has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident.
Air India Responds
Air India has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has activated emergency protocols. A dedicated passenger helpline — 1800 5691 444 — has been set up for families and friends seeking information about those onboard. The airline stated, “We are working closely with all relevant authorities to provide assistance to the affected families and to ascertain the full details of the situation.”
Air India has also deployed a team to support rescue operations and provide necessary assistance at both the crash site and the Ahmedabad airport.
International Concern and Condolences
Given the international nature of the passenger list, several foreign embassies — including the UK, Canada, and Portugal — have been alerted. Consular assistance is being arranged for foreign nationals involved in the crash. Officials from the British High Commission in New Delhi and other diplomatic agencies have expressed their concern and are coordinating with Indian authorities.
Investigation Underway
The DGCA and Air India officials have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. The aircraft’s black box and cockpit voice recorder will be key to understanding the sequence of events that led to the crash. Until more information is available, all speculation is being withheld.
Final Words
This heartbreaking tragedy has left the nation and the global aviation community in mourning. As rescue and identification efforts continue, prayers and support pour in for the victims and their families.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on preliminary reports. Further updates will follow as more official details emerge. Readers are advised to follow Air India and DGCA announcements for verified information.
