Air India flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after takeoff on Wednesday. There were 242 passengers and crew members on board the plane. After a "mayday" call, the plane crashed near the runway. Several passengers are injured and rescue operations are underway. Air India has confirmed the accident and an investigation has begun.

Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on Wednesday. There were a total of 242 people on board the plane, including 169 Indian citizens, 53 British citizens, one Canadian and seven Portuguese citizens. Crew members were also present in the plane.

The aircraft was commanded by Captain Sumit Sabharwal, who had over 8200 hours of flying experience. He was a Long Term Captain (LTC). He was accompanied by co-pilot Clive Kunder, who had so far gained 1100 hours of flying experience.

According to Air Traffic Control (ATC), the plane took off from runway 23 of Ahmedabad airport at 13:39 IST (0809 UTC). Moments after takeoff, a “MAYDAY” call was received from the plane, indicating an emergency.

After this, ATC tried to contact the plane continuously, but there was no response from the plane. Within a few moments, the plane crashed in a residential area some distance from the runway.

According to eyewitnesses, a few minutes after takeoff, the plane lost balance and collided with a building, causing the plane to catch fire and the entire area to fill with smoke. It is being told that the accident took place in a residential area, where a government hospital is also located. The injured have been admitted to the same hospital and other nearby medical centers.

Air India has issued an official statement confirming the accident. The statement said, Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed soon after takeoff today. The safety of the passengers and crew members involved in this incident is our top priority. Air India has also issued a dedicated helpline number 1800 5691 444 for the relatives of the passengers.

Air India has also said that it is extending full cooperation to the authorities involved in the investigation of the accident and further information will be shared through its official X handle (x.com/airindia) and website (airindia.com).

The cause of the accident is still under investigation, while relief and rescue operations are in full swing. The detailed details of loss of life and property have not been revealed yet, although many passengers have been confirmed injured. Teams of the local administration and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are present at the spot.

PC:TV9bharatvarsh