With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI 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- N Chandrasekaran, Chairman Air India.
In a tragic incident, Air India flight AI171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday. The flight lost signal just seconds after becoming airborne, with the last transmission received at 08:08:51 UTC, according to flight tracking service Flightradar24.
The aircraft involved in the crash was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bearing registration number VT-ANB. Flightradar24 confirmed the disappearance of the aircraft’s signal via a post on social media platform X, stating: “We are following reports of a crash of Air India flight #AI171 from Ahmedabad to London. We received the last signal from the aircraft at 08:08:51 UTC, just seconds after take off.”
Emergency services rushed to the site near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport where the aircraft is believed to have gone down. Initial visuals from the scene showed smoke and flames, with fire crews attempting to contain the blaze.
There has been no official confirmation yet regarding the number of casualties or survivors. The aircraft was reportedly carrying 133 passengers at the time of the crash.
Senior government officials, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have reached out to Gujarat Chief Minister and local authorities for updates. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
More details are awaited as rescue operations continue.
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