A tragic aviation disaster happened today as Air India flight AI171 was forced to crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India. The Boeing 787 was en route to Gatwick Airport in the UK. It was packed to the gills, with 244 people on board, including 232 passengers and 12 crew.
The flight, which was slightly delayed, took off from Ahmedabad at approximately 1:47 PM local time. Only nine minutes after being approved for takeoff, the plane reached a peak barometric altitude of 625 feet. Then, it immediately entered into a steep dive with a vertical speed of -475 feet per minute. Preliminary reports suggest that the flight was lost shortly after takeoff, sending shockwaves of sadness and immediate emergency efforts around the globe.
Fifty-three British nationals were aboard, and that began a rapid response from the UK government. They promised to offer “all the support that it is able” to the individuals and families impacted by the crash. The airport in Ahmedabad has arrested the end of day across all operations as authorities gear up with their response to the tragedy.
Further details about the flight crew have come to light. Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal has a splendid flying experience of 8,200 hours at Licensed Transport Captain level, while the co-pilot has recorded 1,100 hours. From the flight crew’s experience, many questions arise about what happened that brought about this tragic incident.
India’s Minister of Civil Aviation stated that, “We are on the maximum alert. Changes like this reinforce how the federal government has reacted to the ongoing crisis. As the plane’s crash continues to reverberate through the Indian and international communities, condolences have been forthcoming from all sides.
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, confirmed the tragic event, stating, “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today.” His comments demonstrate the level of concern and care from the airline at the highest level for those affected and their safety and well-being.
Lucy Powell, a member of Parliament, expressed her sympathy by stating, “The thoughts of the whole House and the government will be with the families of those traveling on flight AI171 from Ahmedabad in India to London, Gatwick, which has reportedly crashed.” Tragically, this sentiment rings true across social media as families desperately wait to hear from their loved ones.
The spokesperson for Ahmedabad Airport extended condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.” As investigations start, it’s still very important that officials figure out exactly what did and didn’t go right during takeoff.