Air India Flight AI171 Crashes After Takeoff in Ahmedabad: 241 Feared Dead, One Survivor. 

Ahmedabad:

In one of the most tragic aviation disasters in recent memory, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad today. The ill-fated aircraft, en route to London Gatwick, was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

Terrifying Moments After Takeoff

According to airport officials, the aircraft departed at 1:38 PM IST and sent a Mayday distress signal within 30 seconds of liftoff. Air traffic control reported that the plane reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet before losing control and plummeting into a densely populated residential area near Meghani Nagar.

Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene, as the aircraft exploded on impact, sending a fireball through parts of the BJ Medical College hostel. At least five medical students lost their lives while having lunch, and around 50 others were injured in the blast.

Massive Casualty Toll, One Survivor

Emergency response teams rushed to the site, battling intense fires and thick smoke. Rescue efforts continued late into the evening. As per latest official updates, 241 people have been confirmed dead — all but one onboard.

A miraculous survival was reported in the case of 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who was seated in seat 11A. He was found conscious but severely injured amidst the wreckage and is currently being treated at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.

Global Leaders React

The tragic incident drew swift international reactions. U.S. President Donald Trump called the crash “one of the worst in aviation history” and offered immediate support to the Indian government. In the UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer termed the loss “devastating” and convened an emergency COBRA meeting to assess the impact, as several British nationals were reportedly on board.

Investigations Underway

Aviation authorities, along with Air India officials and DGCA representatives, are now conducting a high-priority investigation. Preliminary observations reveal that weather conditions were favorable at the time of takeoff, and the aircraft initially behaved normally before the sudden descent. The black box and cockpit voice recorder are being recovered to aid in the inquiry.

Air India’s Response and Public Support Measures

Air India issued a formal statement expressing deep sorrow and assured full cooperation with investigating agencies. The airline has dispatched a special team of caregivers and crisis managers to Ahmedabad and set up an emergency helpline for families of passengers. Grief counseling and medical support are being arranged for affected individuals.

Community in Mourning

The local community in Ahmedabad is reeling from the tragedy. Hundreds gathered outside the hospital and crash site to offer prayers, while local NGOs and volunteer groups are helping victims’ families with logistical support and food.

Ongoing Developments

As rescue and identification operations continue, a national mourning has been declared in Gujarat. Officials are urging the public to rely on verified sources for updates. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and international aviation bodies are expected to release an initial report within a week.

This tragedy marks a dark day in Indian aviation history and has cast a long shadow of grief and shock across the nation and beyond.