An Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed moments after takeoff, with 230 passengers and 12 crew on board. The aircraft, flight AI171, lost contact just seconds after departing at 10:08 a.m. local time.
The plane went down in the residential Meghani Nagar area, sending thick smoke into the sky. Rescue teams quickly arrived, and several people were seen taken away on stretchers. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of casualties.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister said he is “personally monitoring” the crisis and has ordered fast, coordinated rescue efforts. The airline’s chairman called the event a “tragic accident” and offered his “deepest condolences.”
Ahmedabad airport has suspended all flights. Travelers were urged to check with airlines for updates. An emergency center has been set up to help families, and further information will be shared as it becomes available.
