AHMEDABAD, June 12 — All flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad have been suspended temporarily after an Air India aircraft bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday afternoon.
Flight AI 171, which was en route to London’s Gatwick airport, crashed in a residential area near Meghaninagar, just outside the airport perimeter. The crash occurred minutes after takeoff, sending shockwaves through the area and prompting an immediate suspension of operations.
“As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice,” the airport spokesperson said in a statement. “We request passengers to contact their respective airlines for updates and urge everyone to cooperate with the authorities as the situation unfolds.”
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), 232 passengers and 10 crew members were onboard at the time of the crash.
Emergency services, including fire tenders and ambulances, were rushed to the crash site. Videos from the scene showed wreckage engulfed in flames and plumes of black smoke rising skyward. Multiple people were seen being carried on stretchers, though details of casualties remain unconfirmed at this stage.
Officials say further updates will be provided as rescue efforts and an investigation into the crash continue.
