Horror Crash: Air India Flight Bound for London Plunges Into Homes in India
A passenger jet heading to London’s Gatwick Airport has tragically crashed into a crowded neighbourhood just seconds after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in western India.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Air India Flight AI171, was carrying 242 souls onboard—including 169 Indians, 53 Brits, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian—when disaster struck at 13:39 IST.
Mayday Call Moments After Takeoff
- Flight AI171 issued a desperate mayday just after leaving Runway 23.
- Communication cut off when the plane was barely 625 feet in the air, according to tracking data.
- The aircraft smashed down just outside airport grounds, crashing into a densely populated residential zone.
- Emergency services rushed to the scene—recovery efforts are ongoing.
- No official figures on casualties have yet been confirmed.
Experienced Crew, Mysterious Crash
India’s aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), revealed the experienced crew onboard:
- Captain: Over 8,200 flying hours.
- Co-pilot: Logged 1,100 hours.
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.
Despite the mayday alert, no further contact was made before the plane went down.
Official Responses
Air India:
“We are deeply saddened by the developing incident involving AI171. All resources have been mobilised to assist affected families. Updates will be provided as soon as we have confirmed information.”
Boeing:
“We are aware of initial reports and are working closely with authorities to gather facts.”
Full-Scale Investigation Underway
The DGCA has launched a major investigation, bringing in Air India, Boeing, and international safety bodies to get to the bottom of the tragedy.
Flight safety teams are examining the wreckage, while local hospitals remain on high alert with emergency triage units in place.
Passenger Breakdown
- Total aboard: 242
- Passengers: 230
- Crew: 12 (2 pilots, 10 cabin crew)
- Nationalities onboard:
- 169 Indian
- 53 British
- 7 Portuguese
- 1 Canadian
The Aftermath
The area around the crash site has been evacuated as emergency teams coordinate support for residents and families.
The toll in fatalities and survivors remains unknown. Officials hope to publish a preliminary report within 48 hours.
Stay tuned to UK News in Pictures for the latest updates, survivor stories, and expert analysis on this breaking aviation disaster.
If you have loved ones on AI171, please contact the Air India emergency helpline immediately.
