Ahmedabad (National Times): In one of India’s worst aviation disasters in recent years, an Air India flight en route to London Gatwick crashed minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport, claiming the lives of more than 100 passengers. The country is reeling from the tragedy as emergency operations continue at the crash site.
Flight AI171: Catastrophe Minutes Into Takeoff
Air India Flight AI171, carrying 232 passengers, met with disaster shortly after lifting off this morning. The aircraft reportedly lost control and crashed near the airport’s outer perimeter. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, where intense fires, wreckage, and chaos made rescue efforts daunting.
Initial estimates indicate that over 100 people have died, and dozens more are critically injured. Rescue workers, aided by local police, fire services, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and paramedics, are continuing search and recovery efforts into the evening.
Rescue Underway, Hospitals on High Alert
Survivors have been rushed to multiple hospitals across Ahmedabad, where emergency and trauma teams are working tirelessly. Authorities have yet to release a complete list of victims, as identification efforts are still underway.
Medical officials confirm that many of the injured are in critical condition, and casualty figures may rise as more details emerge.
Air India Responds
In a statement issued shortly after the incident, Air India confirmed the crash: “Flight AI171 operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in an incident on June 12. We deeply regret to confirm significant loss of life. We are fully cooperating with local authorities and will provide updates as soon as more information is available.”
