‘All 242 on board feared dead in tragic Air India plane crash in India’ — At least 204 bodies recovered so far

‘All 242 on board feared dead in tragic Air India plane crash in India’ — At least 204 bodies recovered so far

Ahmedabad, India – A devastating plane crash in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad on Thursday evening has reportedly killed all 242 passengers and crew members aboard Air India Flight AI171, according to Indian news outlet News18. Authorities have so far recovered at least 204 bodies from the wreckage.

The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Gujarat state, plummeting into the Meghaninagar residential area. The plane struck a medical college hostel, killing at least five students and injuring at least 25 people on the ground, Ahmedabad police confirmed.

According to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner lost control just five minutes after takeoff and crashed, erupting into flames upon impact.

Those on board included:

• 169 Indian nationals

• 53 British nationals

• 7 Portuguese nationals

• 1 Canadian national

• 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew members

The flight was en route to Gatwick Airport in London, United Kingdom.

Rescue operations began immediately following the crash. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the site, and at least two dozen ambulances were seen rushing the injured to hospitals. Police have cordoned off the entire area and halted traffic.

India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and has instructed all emergency response agencies to act swiftly and in coordination.

More details to follow…