An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft has today morning crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad.
The London-bound aircraft, crashed into the Meghani area of Ahmedabad in the Indian state of Gujarat, sending up spirals of black smoke and setting off an emergency rescue response.
According to a Times of India report, the aircraft was carrying 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers, 10 crew and 2 pilots and there’s no news about casualties released yet, but the crash was confirmed by owners of the carrier, Tata Group, on social media.
“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” Air India stressed in a Statement.
Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed shock over the accident saying, “We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action,”
Additional Reporting from Associated Press
