Ahmedabad, June 12: An Air India aircraft carrying approximately 250 passengers crashed near the Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon, shortly after takeoff for London.
The incident took place at around 1:17 PM, with eyewitnesses reporting thick plumes of smoke rising from the Dharpur area near Meghaninagar. Emergency services, including fire brigade units and disaster response teams, have rushed to the crash site and are currently engaged in rescue operations.
Initial reports indicate that the aircraft encountered difficulties during its ascent, but officials have yet to confirm the exact cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been alerted, and an investigation is expected to be launched.
Local residents in the vicinity described hearing a loud explosion, followed by the sight of flames and dense smoke. “We saw fire and smoke just moments after the aircraft passed over our area,” said a witness from Meghaninagar.
Medical teams have been deployed to nearby hospitals in anticipation of casualties, though there is no official confirmation yet on the number of injured or fatalities. Authorities are working to account for all passengers and crew.
Air India has acknowledged the incident and stated that it is closely coordinating with local authorities and emergency services. A spokesperson said, “We are deeply concerned and are making every effort to provide assistance to those affected.”
Flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport may face temporary disruptions as rescue efforts continue.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more details emerge.
