A tragic aviation accident unfolded in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon as Air India flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed just minutes after takeoff. The aircraft, carrying 242 people including passengers and crew, lost contact with air traffic control at just 625 feet altitude, barely moments after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:38 local time.

A Crash into a Residential Medical Complex

The aircraft went down in the Meghaninagar locality, a densely populated area close to the airport perimeter. According to officials, the plane crashed into a medical complex that includes student hostels and residential buildings used by medical staff and doctors.

Witnesses reported a loud explosion followed by chaos as the aircraft tore into the multi-story hostel. Emergency teams rushed to the scene within minutes. Local authorities have confirmed 5 fatalities at the site—primarily residents of the building—and reported dozens injured, some critically.

A senior police official at the scene told media,

“After the takeoff, the plane crashed here and after a preliminary enquiry, we got to know that it hit a doctors’ hostel. Within minutes, authorities reached the spot. Around 70–80% of the area has now been cleared. We urge the public to cooperate in creating a green corridor for ambulance access.”

Nationalities of Passengers Onboard

Air India has released the confirmed manifest, revealing a diverse group of passengers:

• 169 Indian nationals
• 53 British nationals
• 7 Portuguese nationals
• 1 Canadian national

The airline confirmed that several injured passengers and bystanders have been transported to local hospitals for emergency care.

Official Response and Investigation

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Initial efforts are focused on recovering flight data recorders, cockpit voice recordings, and eyewitness statements. Officials say Boeing representatives are expected to join the investigation to assist in determining the cause of the crash.

While some unverified sources suggest a possible engine failure or flight control malfunction, authorities have urged the public and media to avoid speculation until official findings are released.

This crash is being regarded as one of India’s most serious aviation incidents in recent years involving a wide-body aircraft.

Air India’s Response and Passenger Helpline

Air India has officially confirmed the crash and established a dedicated emergency helpline at:

• 1800 5691 444 (for families and next of kin)
• +91 98214 14954 (for media inquiries)

In a brief statement, Air India expressed condolences to the affected families and stated that it is working closely with authorities to support rescue and recovery efforts.

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