Key Points
- Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner with 242 people onboard including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani rashed minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick.
- A viral photo taken by a passenger shows Vijay Rupani inside the aircraft just before the crash.
- The crash occurred near Meghani Nagar, with the aircraft hitting a building and erupting in flames; thick black smoke was visible for miles.
- The cause remains under investigation, with initial reports citing a possible engine malfunction and the aircraft’s rear section striking the ground.
- Emergency services, including NDRF teams, are conducting large-scale rescue operations; at least 30–40 fatalities have been reported, but the toll may rise.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have assured all possible assistance and are monitoring the situation closely.
- The passenger manifest confirms 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian citizen onboard.
Ahmedabad: A catastrophic aviation tragedy unfolded in Ahmedabad as Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed just minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The London-bound flight was carrying 242 people, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, whose presence was confirmed by the official passenger manifest.
Viral Photo Captures Final Moments
A striking image circulated on social media shows Vijay Rupani seated inside the aircraft, reportedly taken by a fellow passenger moments before the crash. Rupani was en route to London to bring back his wife, who has been in the UK for several months. His confirmed seat number was 2-D in the business class section.
Crash Details: Seconds of Chaos
The aircraft departed at 1:38 PM IST and issued a “Mayday” distress call within seconds of takeof. Radar data indicates the plane reached only about 625 feet before rapidly descending and crashing near Meghani Nagar, just outside the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported the plane veered sharply before impact, striking a building identified as the BJ Medical College hostel causing a massive explosion and thick plumes of black smoke.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Emergency teams, including fire brigades, ambulances, and three NDRF units, rushed to the scene. Rescue operations have been hampered by intense fire and smoke, as well as the building’s structural damage. At least 30–40 bodies have been recovered so far, with many more feared dead or injured. Several MBBS students in the hostel are also reported among the casualties.
Injured passengers and residents have been transported to nearby hospitals, where medical teams have set up triage zones for urgent care. The airport has been temporarily shut, and all flight operations suspended.
National and Local Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Gujarat’s Chief Minister and senior police officials, assuring full central assistance for rescue and relief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed top ministers to travel to Ahmedabad and oversee relief efforts, emphasizing rapid support for victims and their families.
The crash has caused deep anxiety in Rupani’s home neighborhood in Rajkot, where neighbors and friends anxiously await official updates on his condition.
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading the investigation, with technical teams from Boeing expected to assist. Early indications suggest a possible engine malfunction or technical failure, but the exact cause will be determined after analyzing flight data recorders, maintenance logs, and pilot communications.
Passenger Manifest and International Impact
The flight carried a diverse group: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian citizen. Air India has activated a dedicated hotline (1800 5691 444) for families seeking information and is fully cooperating with authorities.
What Happens Next?
- Rescue operations continue as authorities work to account for all passengers and crew.
- Hospitals remain on high alert, and a green corridor has been set up for swift medical transport.
- The DGCA and Boeing will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause.
- Updates on the status of Vijay Rupani and other high-profile passengers are awaited.
