Ahmedabad: A devastating air disaster struck shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday, when an Air India flight bound for London crashed near the city’s Meghani area. All 242 passengers and crew members aboard the Boeing 171 aircraft perished in the crash, according to latest reports.
The flight, which departed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 1:38 PM, lost contact just minutes later. By 1:40 PM, the aircraft had slammed into buildings near BJ Medical College, including the mess hall and Atulyam Hostel, which houses senior resident doctors. The impact caused significant structural damage and immediate casualties on the ground.
Emergency response was swift. The Indian Army deployed around 130 personnel as part of a large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation. Specialized engineering teams with heavy equipment were dispatched to clear debris, while military doctors, paramedics, and Quick Action Teams supported medical and logistical operations at the scene. Firefighting units and provost staff were also deployed to secure the crash site. The Military Hospital in the region has been placed on high alert to assist as needed.
Authorities are working around the clock to manage the aftermath and identify the victims. Meanwhile, helplines have been established for concerned families. The Rajkot district administration has issued a local support number at 0281-2471573. Additionally, Air India has activated a passenger assistance hotline at 1800 5691 444, and Ahmedabad Police can be reached at 079-25620359 for further information.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, with civil aviation and defense experts expected to conduct a detailed inquiry. This incident marks one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in recent Indian history, leaving the nation in mourning.