The tragic crash involving Air India still leaves numerous questions unaddressed, but new information has emerged regarding the pilot’s last words before the catastrophe.
The unfortunate incident took place shortly after an Air India flight departed from Ahmedabad Airport in India on Thursday, June 12.
Flight AI 171 was en route to London Gatwick, with an expected arrival in the UK at 6:25 pm local time.
Tragically, the plane only ascended to approximately 625 feet before it crashed four miles from the airport’s runway.
Air India reported that the aircraft was carrying 242 passengers and crew. The airline stated: “Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals.”
It is reported that the sole survivor of the crash is 40-year-old British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanan Desai has confirmed that 265 bodies have been retrieved, including those who perished on the ground. However, this figure might rise as rescue operations proceed.
The precise cause of the crash is under investigation, with more information anticipated in the following days.
The pilots of the doomed flight, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kunder, have been identified.
India’s aviation regulatory body noted that the aircraft issued a mayday alert to air traffic control, but no further communication was received from the plane.
According to reports, the captain’s radio transmission included: “Mayday […] no thrust, losing power, unable to lift.”
The pilots reportedly tried to regain control of the aircraft as it descended before ultimately crashing into a medical college hostel.
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, expressed his condolences in an extensive statement, describing the incident as a ‘tragic accident’.
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.”