Air India Plane Carrying 242 Passengers Crashes After Takeoff in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, India – June 12
A tragic aviation incident occurred today as an Air India aircraft carrying 242 passengers crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The flight was en route to London, United Kingdom, when the accident took place.
According to initial reports from India Today, the accident happened just minutes after the aircraft left the runway. Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane struggling to gain altitude before a loud noise was heard, followed by plumes of thick, black smoke rising into the air. The source of the smoke was visible near the airport’s perimeter, triggering immediate panic among airport staff and nearby residents.
Emergency response teams were quickly mobilized, with seven fire engines and multiple ambulances rushing to the scene. Local news footage and bystander videos showed rescue teams battling flames and thick smoke as they attempted to reach passengers inside the wreckage. Several individuals were seen being carried away on stretchers, receiving emergency medical assistance on-site before being transported to nearby hospitals.
At the time of publication, Indian aviation authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties or the extent of injuries. However, officials have acknowledged that a full investigation has been launched, and all flights in and out of the airport have been temporarily suspended to allow rescue and recovery operations to proceed safely.
Several witnesses at the airport reported hearing loud engine noises followed by an explosion shortly after takeoff. “It looked like the aircraft couldn’t gain enough height. Then we heard a loud bang and saw smoke coming up. It was terrifying,” said one traveler waiting for a separate flight.
Air India released a brief statement confirming the crash and expressing deep concern for the safety of its passengers and crew. “We are in close contact with local authorities and emergency services. Our priority at this moment is to assist those affected and their families,” the airline said.
Meanwhile, aviation experts suggest that factors such as mechanical failure, bird strikes, or possible engine malfunction could be among the causes. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading the inquiry, and black box recovery efforts are reportedly underway.
The incident has shocked the nation, with messages of support pouring in from political leaders, celebrities, and citizens on social media. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
This marks one of the most serious aviation incidents in India in recent years. Updates regarding survivors, fatalities, and the cause of the crash are expected as the investigation continues.
