An Air India flight bound for London Gatwick Airport crashed into a residential area in Ahmedabad, India, just minutes after takeoff on Thursday. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, carrying more than 240 passengers and crew, went down at 1:38 p.m. local time, sending plumes of smoke into the sky.
Authorities report that the flight, designated AI 171, was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. The crash occurred in Meghani Nagar, a densely populated area near the airport, raising concerns about additional casualties on the ground.
Emergency response teams have been mobilized, and rescue operations are underway. India's aviation minister, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, stated that all efforts are being made to provide medical aid and relief support. Meanwhile, London Gatwick Airport has set up a reception center for relatives of those onboard.
Boeing has expressed its condolences and pledged support to Air India during this crisis. The cause of the crash remains unknown, but aviation experts note that such incidents during takeoff are rare and often involve sudden technical failures.
This is a developing story. Authorities are working to confirm the number of casualties and provide further updates as rescue efforts continue.
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