Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Air India Aircraft With 242 Onboard Crashes Near Takeoff
Imagine boarding a flight to London, only for it to end in a tragic crash within minutes. The skies over Ahmedabad turned grim on 12th June as a major air disaster unfolded. The Ahmedabad Plane Crash has shaken the nation and raised urgent concerns over air safety.
Air India’s flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 people, crashed in the Meghaninagar area near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, just minutes after takeoff. Here’s everything we know so far:
Contents
What Happened?
- Flight AI171, heading from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, took off at 1:38 PM IST.
- Within minutes, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a densely populated area near Meghaninagar IGP complex.
- Thick smoke and fire were seen at the crash site, with local residents and rescue teams rushing to help.
Official Emergency Contact: Air India has activated a dedicated hotline for families seeking information: 1800 5691 444
Quick Facts About the Flight
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
- Onboard: 230 passengers (including 2 infants), 12 crew members
- Nationalities: 169 Indians, 53 British, 1 Canadian, 7 Portuguese
Timeline of Events
- 1:10 PM: Scheduled departure from Ahmedabad
- 1:38 PM: Actual takeoff
- 1:39 PM: “Mayday” distress call issued
- Within 5 minutes: Crash occurred in Meghaninagar locality
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff and lost communication with Air Traffic Control right after the Mayday call.
Rescue and Relief Operations
- NDRF Teams Deployed:
- 3 teams (90 personnel) from Gandhinagar
- 3 more teams from Vadodara
- Ambulances and Support:
- Over 24 ambulances rushed to the scene
- Emergency response centers and family assistance teams activated
Government and Airline Response
From Air India:
“We are giving our full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident,”
Tweeted Air India. A dedicated hotline has also been set up: 1800 5691 444.
From DGCA:
The crash occurred just outside the airport perimeter after takeoff from Runway 23. The pilots onboard were:
- Captain: Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 flight hours)
- First Officer: Clive Kundar (1,100 flight hours)
Prime Minister’s Statement:
PM Narendra Modi has spoken with Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, who is heading to Ahmedabad. He has directed immediate rescue efforts and close coordination among agencies.
Home Minister’s Statement:
Amit Shah spoke with Gujarat CM and top officials, assuring full support from the Central Government.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel said,
“Green corridor has been arranged to transport injured for quick medical aid.”
Video Evidence and Eyewitness Reports
A 17-second video surfaced online, showing the aircraft descending rapidly and then crashing, followed by a large plume of black smoke. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic, fire, and rescue efforts.
Ahmedabad Airport Closed
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has temporarily suspended operations.
- Authorities urge travelers to check with airlines before heading to the airport.
“We request your cooperation and patience,” said an airport spokesperson.
Boeing’s Statement
“We are aware of the reports and are gathering more information,” said Boeing Co. after the crash of their 787 aircraft.
UK Government Statement
The UK Foreign Office said:
“We are working with Indian authorities to establish facts and provide support. British nationals needing consular help can call: 020 7008 5000.”
Understanding Flight Accident Insurance
Tragedies like the Ahmedabad Plane Crash remind us of the importance of travel coverage, especially flight accident insurance.
What Is Flight Accident Insurance?
It’s a special coverage that offers financial protection in case of:
- Medical emergencies during a flight
- Accidental disability
- Accidental death
- Emergency evacuations
This is not the same as regular travel insurance. It’s a supplemental policy offering specific coverage for aviation accidents.
What’s Covered?
- Medical expenses
- Temporary or permanent disability compensation
- Accidental death benefits
- Emergency evacuation charges
What’s Not Covered?
- Death due to illness or drug overdose
- Surgical complications not caused by the accident
Always compare insurance plans and check exclusions before buying.
Airline Compensation vs Insurance
Airlines do offer compensation in crashes, but it’s often limited. Flight accident insurance goes a step further:
- Covers medical treatments
- Wage loss due to disability
- Rehabilitation expenses
The Ahmedabad Plane Crash is a national tragedy that has sparked sorrow and urgent action. While investigations are still ongoing, our thoughts remain with the passengers, families, and rescue teams involved.
We’ll continue updating this article as more confirmed details come in.
Helpline Numbers:
- Air India Hotline: 1800 5691 444
- UK Consular Help: 020 7008 5000
