In a tragic incident, at least 91 people have been killed as a London bound plane crashed soon after take-off in Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB) was carrying 242 people , including two pilots and 10 cabin crew members. 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian national. Former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani was also one of the passengers.
Air India’s statement:
In an official statement on X, Air India wrote, “Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals.”
It further read, “We have also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information. Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident.”
Prime Minister Modi Reacts:
Prime minister Narendra Modi wrote on X, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.”
The last deadly plane crash in India was in 2020 and involved Air India Express. It had overshot a “table-top” runway at Kozhikode International Airport killing 21 people. Play
