Air India flight crashes in Ahmedabad, 1 survivor reported

A devastating tragedy struck today as Air India Flight AI-347, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. Authorities have confirmed one survivor, though details about their condition remain undisclosed.

The flight, bound for Delhi, lost contact with air traffic control minutes after departing at 6:45 PM IST. Preliminary reports suggest the aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure, plunging into a residential area near the airport. Emergency services rushed to the scene, battling intense flames and debris scattered across a 500-meter radius.

Local officials report significant damage to nearby structures, with at least 15 injuries on the ground. The sole survivor, found amidst the wreckage, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Their identity has not been released.

Air India issued a statement expressing profound grief and pledging full cooperation with investigators. The National Transportation Safety Board, alongside Indian aviation authorities, has launched a probe to determine the cause, with early speculation pointing to mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on X, stating, “My heart goes out to the families affected by this horrific tragedy. The nation stands with them.”

Rescue operations continue as authorities work to identify victims and support affected families.

Helpline

Air India flight AI 171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, had 242 people on board, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese passengers.

Visuals from the crash site showed the plane’s charred wreckage, thick plumes of smoke, and emergency personnel engaged in rescue operations. Videos also captured injured passengers being transported to hospitals, with at least two dozen ambulances reported at the scene.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and has instructed aviation and emergency response teams to act swiftly and in coordination.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he posted on X.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft, piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 flight hours) and First Officer Clive Kundar (1,100 hours), issued a mayday call moments before the crash.

Air India has launched a dedicated helpline—1800 5691 444—for families seeking more information.