An Air India plane headed for London has crashed with 244 people on board in the north-west Indian city of Ahmedabad, in Gujarat state, according to local officials and the airline.
Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran confirmed flight AI171, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, was involved in a “tragic accident” and the responsible minister said the government was on the “highest alert”.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event,” Chandrasekaran said in a statement.
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the director general of the directorate of civil aviation, told The Associated Press that the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed into a residential area called Meghani Nagar five minutes after taking off at 1.38pm (6.08pm AEST).
He said there were 232 passengers and 12 crew members onboard the flight.
Gatwick Airport said the downed flight had been due to arrive at 6.25pm today (3.25am tomorrow AEST).
Chandrasekaran said the airline’s primary focus would be supporting the passengers 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,” he said.
“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.”
India’s Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, said he was “shocked and devastated” to learn about the crash.
“We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action,” he said.
“Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has mobilised the state’s rescue and relief crews to immediately respond.
“I have also instructed to arrange a green corridor to take the injured passengers for treatment and to ensure all the treatment arrangements in the hospital on priority,” he said.
“The Honourable Union Home Minister Shri Amitbhai Shah has also spoken to me and assured full support of the NDRF teams and the Central Government for the rescue and relief operations in this plane crash.”
There are no confirmations of any injuries or fatalities.
This is a developing story. More to come.
