Ahmedabad was shaken by a horrific tragedy on Wednesday afternoon when Air India flight AI171, en route to London Gatwick, crashed into a hostel building of BJ Medical College shortly after take-off. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft was carrying 242 people, including 169 Indian nationals and passengers from the UK, Canada, and Portugal.
Horrifying visuals from the crash site show uneaten plates of food strewn across the hostel dining area, suggesting that many resident doctors were in the middle of lunch when the plane struck the building. The aircraft reportedly sent out a Mayday call moments after departure at 1:38 pm, before turning into a fireball and crashing within minutes.
Rescue and relief efforts are underway as authorities attempt to assess the extent of damage and casualties. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
Air India confirmed the incident and has set up a dedicated hotline (1800 5691 444) for families of passengers and staff. For international callers, the hotline number is +91 8062779200.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief, stating, “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us… My thoughts are with everyone affected.” Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said he is monitoring the situation and has ordered swift, coordinated action from aviation and emergency teams.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the visuals “devastating” and said he is receiving regular updates. Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran added that the airline is focused on supporting families and emergency responders during this tragic hour.