UK-bound Air India flight with 242 aboard crashes in western India

A London-bound Air India passenger flight carrying 242 people crashed Thursday shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in the western Indian state of Gujarat, Anadolu Agency reports citing local authorities.

The aircraft went down in a residential area of Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, after departing at 1.39 pm local time (0809GMT). Emergency services rushed to the scene, and fears of casualties remain high, though officials have not confirmed any numbers yet.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said the aircraft was carrying 242 people, including two pilots and 10 cabin crew members.

According to the DGCA, the aircraft issued a Mayday call to the air traffic control (ATC) shortly after takeoff but did not respond to further communications.

Air India confirmed the crash, stating that Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, was involved in “an incident” after departing Ahmedabad.

“At this moment, we are ascertaining the details,” the airline posted on X.

Gatwick Airport officials said the aircraft had been scheduled to land in London at 6.25 pm local time.

Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran expressed “profound sorrow” over the crash.

“Our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families,” he said in a statement. “We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and provide all necessary support and care.”

Indian lawmaker Yusuf Pathan called the crash “shocking” and offered prayers for the safety of those onboard.