A devastating incident unfolded Thursday as an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Flight AI171, carrying at least 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The flight, en route to Birmingham, United Kingdom, went down in the Meghaninagar area, sparking panic as thick black smoke billowed from the crash site, according to eyewitness videos circulating on social media.
The aircraft, under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, issued a MAYDAY call minutes after departing at 1:38 PM IST, but lost contact with air traffic control. FlightRadar24 reported the plane reached 625 feet before a sudden descent. Emergency services, including seven fire engines and ambulances, rushed to the scene, where debris and flames were visible. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and authorities have not confirmed casualties.
Air India stated, “Flight AI171 was involved in an incident today. We are ascertaining details and will provide updates.” India’s Civil Aviation Minister expressed devastation, mobilizing rescue efforts. Ahmedabad airport has been temporarily closed as investigations begin.
