Air India Flight With 242 Onboard Crashes After Takeoff From Ahmedabad Airport

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Gujarat, India: An Air India passenger aircraft, operating as Flight AI 171, crashed earlier today near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner had 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, at a low altitude of around 625 feet, after the pilots reportedly issued a MAYDAY distress call.

The crash site was identified in the Ghoda Camp area of Meghani Nagar, a densely populated zone not far from the airport perimeter. Thick black smoke was seen billowing from the scene, with flames engulfing parts of the wreckage. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion followed by chaos as debris scattered across the area. Videos circulating on social media show rescue workers navigating the damaged surroundings while fire engines fought to contain the blaze.

Emergency response teams, including the fire brigade, ambulances, police, and disaster management units, reached the site within minutes. Roads around the crash zone were immediately sealed off to allow unhindered rescue operations. Medical responders began triaging injured individuals at the spot before transferring them to local hospitals.

Initial reports confirmed eight people sustained injuries – five passengers, two cabin crew members, and one pilot. All are in stable condition. So far, there have been no confirmed fatalities. Rescue efforts are still ongoing, and the aircraft’s black box is expected to offer more insight once recovered.

Authorities have yet to confirm the root cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), along with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), has launched a formal investigation. While a technical malfunction is suspected, officials have stated that it is too early to draw conclusions. Details about the exact sequence of events are expected to emerge following analysis of cockpit recordings and flight data.

The flight was being operated by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who has over 8,000 hours of flying experience, alongside First Officer Clive Kundar. The aircraft, identified as VT-ANB, had been in regular service and was scheduled for an international route, though the destination has not been officially confirmed.

Government authorities, including Gujarat’s Chief Minister Amit Shah and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, are closely monitoring the situation. Relief and medical assistance have been mobilized, and Air India has initiated internal support mechanisms for affected families. Airport operations in Ahmedabad remain suspended until further notice, with flights being diverted to alternate airports.

Residents of the area have been asked to stay clear of the crash zone. Officials have also urged the public not to circulate unverified information or graphic visuals online.

This remains a developing story. Further updates will be issued as more facts are confirmed by official sources.