An Air India passenger plane bound for London, with 242 people on board, crashed anear Ahmedabad Airport in Gujarat, India, this afternoon.
Air India confirms nationality in the Ahmedabad crash:
169 Indian nationals
53 are British nationals
1 Canadian national
7 Portuguese nationals
Few key updates from Officials
• The crash occurred between 1 pm and 2 pm Indian time, with the aircraft reportedly losing altitude soon after takeoff.
• According to preliminary information, the plane had reached approximately 825 feet when it suddenly descended.
• Multiple pictures have surfaced showing the crashed Air India plane at a medical college in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad.
• One passenger miraculously survived the Ahmedabad plane crash, as Indian media reported that the passenger in seat 11A escaped unscathed and jumped out of the emergency exit.
• The London Gatwick Airport issued a statement of its own: “We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25.”
• The Tata Group, which owns Air India, issued a statement. N Chandrasekaran, Air India chairman, said, “With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
• “At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information,” Mr Chandrasekaran added.
• “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragedy of Air India Flight 171. Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered an unimaginable loss. We are working closely with all authorities and extending full support to the families on the ground,” said industrialist Gautam Adani in a statement.
