Air India Flight AI171, which was on its way to Gatwick from Ahmedabad, crashed this Thursday near Gujarat’s Meghani Nagar. The visuals of the crash are going viral on the internet, showcasing thick smoke and flames emanating from the crash site. The flight took off from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM local time and crashed just five minutes into the flight, right after takeoff. If you are someone who wants to know more about the Air India plane crash, the following article is for you. It brings you everything we know so far about the Air India plane, which was bound for London and crashed five minutes into the flight.
What We Know So Far About The Air India Plane Crash?
According to the latest reports that are coming from the crash site, the crashed plane was carrying a total of 242 passengers (169 Indians, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian national, and 7 Portuguese nationals) onboard. As per the reports, around 30 deaths have been reported, but no confirmations have been made till now. The injured are also being rushed to the hospitals. The plane was a Boeing Dreamliner and took off for London from the Ahmedabad airport. The reports also suggest that the plane crashed into a pretty densely populated area and also apparently impacted a nearby building on the crash site. The local residents of the area rushed toward the crash site to help the passengers involved in the crash.
How Is The Government Reacting To The Air India Plane Crash?
Bhupendra Patel, who is currently serving as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, reportedly rushed to the crash site from Surat to assess the current situation after the crash. The reports also reveal that Union Minister Amit Shah has also talked to the Gujarat CM as well as the Home Minister, and the Police Commissioner regarding the crash. Amit Shah has assured that the central government is going to fully assist the rescue operations. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel has also announced a green corridor for the quick transportation of injured people to the hospitals.
Air India Confirms The Plane Crash Through A Statement
Air India, through a post on X, officially confirmed that the plane crash of Flight AI-171, which was bound for London-Gatwick, was involved in an incident today. It has also been informed that the team is currently assessing the situation. Air India also informed that the people on board included 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew. The plane that crashed was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kunder.
What Did The Civil Aviation Minister Say About The Plane Crash?
K Rammohan Naidu, who is currently serving as the Civil Aviation Minister of India, through a post on X, mentioned that he was shocked as well as devastated to learn about the crash. He further added that the authorities are under high alert and he’s personally monitoring the situation. The Civil Aviation Minister also mentioned that the aviation and emergency response agencies have sprung into action. He also added that the rescue teams are deployed, and medical aid as well as relief support are being rushed to the site.
What Did The Air India Chairman Say About The Plane Crash?
N Chandrasekaran, who is currently serving as the Chairman of Air India, mentioned in a statement that their primary focus is providing support to all the families affected. He mentioned that the airline is doing everything in its power to assist the emergency crews. Chandrasekaran also mentioned that an emergency center has been activated for families seeking information about their loved ones. The reason behind the crash is still unknown.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Halts Operations
According to the latest reports, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has halted all its operations for now. The flight operations are temporarily suspended until the authorities issue further notice. Gatwick Airport also confirmed the news of the plane, which was scheduled to land at London Gatwick at 18:25, crashing after takeoff.
