New Delhi [India], June 12 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed profound sorrow over the tragic crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad, calling the incident “heartbreaking beyond words.” Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi conveyed his condolences and assured all possible assistance to the affected families.
“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 Prime Minister wrote.
Air India confirmed that Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, met with a fatal accident shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 individuals, including 12 crew members.
The passenger manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national. The airline stated that the injured have been transported to nearby hospitals for treatment and added that a passenger hotline—1800 5691 444—has been established to provide timely information to relatives and concerned parties.
Air India emphasized its full cooperation with authorities conducting the ongoing investigation.
The crash occurred in the Meghaninagar area near the airport perimeter. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), an investigative team has been dispatched to the site to examine the cause of the accident.
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with 8,200 hours of flying experience, was at the controls, assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who has logged 1,100 hours of flight time.
As per air traffic control (ATC), the aircraft departed from Runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST (0809 UTC). It issued a Mayday call shortly after takeoff but ceased responding to further ATC communications. Moments later, the aircraft crashed beyond the airport perimeter.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick plumes of black smoke at the crash site. Emergency responders, including fire tenders and rescue teams, quickly reached the location to control the fire and assist victims.
The government and local authorities remain on high alert, with rescue and relief efforts underway. The nation continues to reel from the impact of this devastating tragedy. (ANI)
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