Ahmedabad, India – In one of the worst aviation disasters in India’s recent history, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport at 1:38 PM today. Only one passenger, seated at 11A, has survived the tragedy, according to officials.
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Catastrophic Crash Moments After Takeoff
Flight AI 171, bound for London Gatwick, crashed just minutes after departure. The aircraft was seen flying unusually low, struggling to gain altitude before slamming into the ground and erupting into a massive fireball. A disturbing video captured the final moments of the crash, showing the plane’s rapid descent and explosion.
Shortly after takeoff, pilot Captain Sumeet Sabharwal—with over 8,200 flight hours—sent out a mayday call, which was the last communication received. First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 flight hours, was also in the cockpit.
Flight Details and Casualties
The ill-fated flight had:
- 232 passengers
- 10 crew members
Passenger nationality breakdown:
- 169 Indians
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese
- 1 Canadian
The aircraft, fully loaded with fuel for the long-haul flight to London, crashed into a medical college hostel, tragically killing five student doctors on the ground. Visuals show debris piercing through the hostel’s dining hall, with untouched plates and food strewn across the scene.
Emergency Response and Investigation Underway
Over two dozen ambulances were rushed to the site, transporting the injured. Police have sealed off the area, and traffic has been diverted. Emergency teams and firefighters are working through the wreckage, battling smoke and flames.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated he is “personally monitoring the situation” and has ordered “swift and coordinated response efforts.” He expressed his condolences, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
Aviation Experts Raise Questions
According to aviation analyst Sanjay Lazar, the aircraft failed to gain altitude beyond 825 feet, indicating a critical lift issue shortly after takeoff. Investigators from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are on-site, and a formal probe is underway.
Passenger Helpline and Further Updates
Air India has launched a dedicated helpline for families and loved ones:
📞 1800 5691 444
Updates will continue as officials release more information regarding the cause of the crash and the condition of the sole survivor.
Conclusion
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves across India and the international community. With only one survivor from a flight carrying 242 souls, the Air India AI 171 crash is a grim reminder of aviation’s fragility and the value of every life lost. As families mourn, and investigations begin, the nation stands united in grief.