The Commissioner of Ahmedabad city police has indicated that there are likely ‘no survivors’ following the Air India aircraft crash shortly after takeoff on June 12.
The Air India flight AI 171 was headed for London Gatwick, scheduled to arrive in the UK at 6:25 pm local time.
Tragically, the plane crashed into a residential sector named Meghani Nagar, shortly after departing from Ahmedabad Airport. Officials have confirmed that the crash impacted a medical college hostel.
According to Air India, the flight carried 242 passengers and crew. The airline detailed: “Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals.”
Commissioner G.S. Malik, from Ahmedabad city police, updated The Associated Press by stating: “It appears there are no survivors in the plane crash.”
“Exact figures on casualties are being ascertained,” he added.
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, chairman of Air India, recently released a statement extending condolences to those impacted by the crash.
He stated: “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI171 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.”
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed on Twitter that ‘the tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us’.
“It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected,” he continued.
Meanwhile, the British Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, reflected on the ‘devastating’ event, commenting: “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating.
“I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”
Disturbing video footage of the incident has emerged online, depicting the plane’s rapid descent followed by a significant explosion.
A resulting fire has caused a large plume of smoke to rise near the airport.