Ahmedabad Plane Crash, What started as a regular international flight quickly turned into a national tragedy. Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed just minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. Carrying 242 souls onboard—including passengers and crew—the aircraft went down in what is being called one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in nearly three decades.
Moments Before the Crash
The Dreamliner took off at precisely 1:38 PM from runway 23. Barely five minutes into the flight, disaster struck. The aircraft lost altitude rapidly and plummeted into a densely populated area near the airport, leaving behind a horrific scene of destruction, smoke, and panic. Social media quickly filled with images of thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky—visuals that confirmed the worst fears.
Panic on the Ground: Locals Rush to Help
As the deafening crash echoed through the nearby neighborhoods, local residents didn’t waste a second. People rushed toward the wreckage to assist in whatever way they could—pulling passengers from the debris, offering water, comfort, and hope. While emergency services were mobilized swiftly, it was the selfless actions of these brave civilians that played a vital role in the initial rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Modi Reacts: ‘Stunned and Saddened’
Ahmedabad Plane Crash, Shortly after news of the tragedy broke, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) and expressed his anguish. “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words,” he wrote. PM Modi also assured that he was in close contact with ministers and officials to ensure that support and assistance reach those affected immediately.
Details from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
According to DGCA’s preliminary report, the aircraft crashed just five minutes after takeoff. The flight was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kunder assisting. Along with 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew members, the flight was carrying 230 passengers, including nationals from multiple countries.
Breakdown of Nationalities Onboard
Here’s what Air India revealed about the passenger demographics:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
- 12 crew members (2 pilots and 10 cabin crew)
This tragedy has rippled across continents, affecting families from India, the UK, and beyond.
Air India Responds and Sets Up Helpline
Ahmedabad Plane Crash, Air India confirmed the incident and launched a dedicated passenger helpline: 1800 5691 444. This hotline was set up to support families seeking updates and information on their loved ones.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, shared his heartfelt condolences. “Our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families,” he said. An emergency response center has been set up to coordinate efforts on the ground and to provide every possible resource for recovery and support.
Central Government’s Swift Response
The Indian government wasted no time. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu posted on X:
“Shocked and devastated… Rescue teams have been mobilized. I am personally monitoring the situation.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also sprang into action. He spoke to Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and senior police officials. His statement read:
“Pained beyond words… Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed. Every effort is being made to save lives.”
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Issues Emergency Orders
Chief Minister Patel, who rushed to Ahmedabad from Surat, ordered immediate rescue operations and directed officials to create a green corridor—a special emergency path—for transporting the injured to hospitals. He also ensured hospitals were placed on high alert with all resources made available on a war footing.
Airport Operations Suspended
Ahmedabad Plane Crash, In the aftermath of the crash, operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport have been suspended temporarily. A spokesperson stated that all flights are grounded until further notice, and alternate arrangements are being made for incoming and outgoing air traffic.
Gatwick Airport Confirms the Tragedy
London’s Gatwick Airport issued a formal confirmation:
“We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25.”
Families waiting in London for their loved ones were devastated upon hearing the news, with the airport providing counseling and assistance to grieving relatives.
Investigation Underway: AAIB Team Deployed
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has sent a team led by its Director General to Ahmedabad to probe the incident. Investigators are focusing on several key areas:
- Potential mechanical failure
- Pilot reports before the crash
- Air traffic control communications
- Weather conditions at the time
Black box data and cockpit voice recordings are expect to provide more clarity in the coming days.
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal: A Veteran in Command
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal had logged over 12,000 flying hours and was known for his precision and professionalism. Colleagues described him as calm under pressure and deeply respected within aviation circles. First Officer Clive Kunder also had significant flight experience. Their actions in those last moments may have prevented an even worse catastrophe, as reports suggest the pilots veered the aircraft slightly away from the densest residential blocks.
Global Mourning: An International Tragedy
Ahmedabad Plane Crash, The tragic crash has not only shaken India but also triggered condolences from leaders and aviation bodies around the world. The British High Commission in New Delhi expressed deep sorrow, offering full support to families of British nationals on board. Portugal and Canada have issued similar statements.
Aviation Experts Weigh In
Aviation safety expert Captain Ajay Ahuja remarked,
“While it’s too early to point fingers, the fact that the crash happened so soon after takeoff raises questions about engine failure or a sudden structural issue.”
Another former DGCA official added,
“This incident will trigger a complete re-evaluation of the Dreamliner fleet currently operating in India.”
Support for Families: What Happens Next?
Air India has announced:
- Compensation for families of the deceased
- Free transport and lodging for relatives traveling to Ahmedabad
- Counseling and legal assistance for claims and documentation
- Priority in airlifting critically injured passengers to advanced hospitals
Lessons in Resilience Amid the Rubble
Despite the chaos, stories of courage and compassion have emerged. From locals pulling people from wreckage with bare hands to medical staff working nonstop to stabilize the wounded, the spirit of unity has been deeply moving.
Honoring the Fallen
In honor of those lost, memorial services are being plan in multiple cities including Ahmedabad, Delhi, and London. Citizens have already begun placing candles, flowers, and messages outside Air India offices and the airport terminals. As the investigations proceed, one thing resonates louder than the sound of the engines that once soared through the sky—humanity endures even in tragedy.
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Conclusion
Ahmedabad Plane Crash, This tragedy will go down in Indian aviation history as a day of immense loss and sorrow. But it will also be remember for how a nation united—its citizens, government, and frontline workers—to support the victims, uncover the truth, and take steps toward healing and justice.
The full cause may take months to uncover, but one thing is certain: India will leave no stone unturned in finding answers and ensuring accountability. Until then, our thoughts remain with the families who lost their loved ones in the skies above Ahmedabad.
