A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operated by Air India, carrying 242 people, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, went down in the Meghani Nagar residential area at around 1:38 PM local time, moments after issuing a distress call.
The aircraft, with registration number VT-ANB, lost contact with air traffic control just after taking off from Runway 23. It reached only about 625 feet in altitude before crashing into a residential building used as a doctors’ hostel, causing a massive explosion and fire.
Eyewitnesses reported a loud noise followed by flames and smoke rising into the sky. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, working through thick debris and fire to search for survivors.
There were 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board, including 11 children. Nationalities on the flight included 169 Indians, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.
At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far. Rescue operations are ongoing, and many injured survivors have been taken to local hospitals. Authorities warn that the death toll could rise.
Flight operations at Ahmedabad airport have been temporarily suspended to support rescue and investigation efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the crash “heartbreaking beyond words” and said all necessary support would be provided. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have begun investigations into the crash, with support from Boeing technical teams.
Boeing has acknowledged the crash and confirmed it is cooperating with Indian authorities.
Boeing’s stock fell by 8% in pre-market trading after news of the crash broke. This incident marks the first total loss of a Boeing 787 and is Air India’s deadliest aviation disaster since the 1985 bombing of Flight 182.
Investigators will analyze flight data and cockpit voice recorders to determine what went wrong. Meanwhile, Air India has activated its emergency support response, including helplines and care centers for affected families.
This is a developing story and updates are expected as more information becomes available.