Air India Plane Crashes in Ahmedabad: MEA Confirms Major Casualties, 242 On Board

A tragic aviation disaster unfolded in Ahmedabad as an Air India aircraft carrying 242 passengers crashed shortly after takeoff. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed significant loss of life, calling it a “deep national tragedy.” Emergency services are on the ground, and rescue efforts are underway amid heartbreaking scenes at the crash site.

What Happened?

The Air India flight, scheduled for an international route, crashed soon after departing from Ahmedabad airport. The aircraft lost altitude rapidly and crashed into an open area near the city outskirts, triggering a massive fire. Locals in nearby residential zones reported a thunderous sound followed by thick plumes of smoke.

The plane was carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew. Initial reports suggest that many may not have survived, though a few injured individuals have been rushed to hospitals.

MEA Statement: “We Have Lost a Lot of People”

Addressing the nation, a senior official from the Ministry of External Affairs expressed sorrow and stated, “We have lost a lot of people.” While the official count of casualties has not been confirmed yet, the language used indicates a high death toll.

Families of passengers are being contacted, and assistance desks have been set up at the airport and major hospitals. MEA officials have also been deployed to assist foreign nationals, if any, who were on board.

Rescue Operations and Emergency Response

Fire brigades, NDRF teams, and medical personnel have been mobilized immediately. The wreckage is spread over a large area, complicating recovery efforts. Rescuers are working through the debris, hoping to locate any survivors.

Hospitals in Ahmedabad have been put on high alert. Blood donation appeals have been issued as part of the city’s emergency response. Several passengers were from nearby Tier 2 cities, making this tragedy deeply personal for communities across Gujarat.

Eyewitness Accounts and Local Impact

Residents near the crash site reported seeing the aircraft in distress moments before impact. Some even attempted to assist before authorities arrived. Many described the visuals as “unbearable,” with wreckage scattered and fire engulfing parts of the field.

Public sentiment in the region is one of shock and mourning. Schools and government offices in certain parts of Ahmedabad have declared a day of silence in respect of the victims.

What Comes Next?

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a full investigation. Officials will analyze flight data and cockpit voice recorders to determine what led to the crash. Weather conditions at the time were reported to be stable, raising questions about possible technical failure or pilot distress.

Conclusion

This devastating incident has shaken not just Ahmedabad but the entire nation. As the rescue and recovery continue, the country waits for clarity and closure. For now, the focus remains on saving lives, identifying victims, and providing support to grieving families.