An Air India passenger plane carrying 176 people was operating flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. It crashed today this morning in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Local authorities jumped into immediate action following the incident. Consequently, they temporarily shut down flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The Gujarat government, under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, acted quickly to the crisis, directing officials to begin base rescue and relief operation. In a statement posted on social media, he said it was his great sorrow and concern that such an escalation had taken place. I’m shocked and deeply saddened by the terrible accident that has taken place today with the crash of an Air India passenger plane at Ahmedabad. He ordered the officials to start rescue and relief operations for the accident without delay. Further, he focused attention on the importance of organizing for the rapid treatment of injured passengers.
The crash has caused diversion of all incoming flights and temporary suspension of all flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. An airport spokesperson told The Verge that the airport is still closed as of Monday, with ongoing rescue efforts.
The reality of the situation has led to operational challenges. It has further raised alarming questions regarding the safety of passengers and crew members on board the airplane. According to news accounts, responders are on scene and treating patients, including victims injured from the crash.
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran too reacted on the issue and said that he is deeply saddened by the tragedy. With deep sadness I must confirm that Air India flight, AI 171 flying Ahmedabad to London Gatwick suffered a catastrophic accident today,” he said, emphasizing the airline’s promise to focus on recovery from this event.
While recovery crews continue to scour the crash site in search of answers, families of the passengers are understandably still shaken and awaiting more information. The total number of injuries and possible fatalities is still unknown as authorities start to investigate the cause of the collision.
These are challenging, unprecedented times and we understand that authorities are doing their best to make information available quickly. The task shifting to making sure everyone returns to their family safely.