Air India Jet Crashes After Takeoff, 290 Feared Dead

More than 290 people are feared dead after a London-bound Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India. The aircraft struck a residential area, including a medical college hostel, triggering a massive emergency response and leaving the global community reeling.

Dramatic footage from the crash site showed thick plumes of black smoke rising from the wreckage. Part of the aircraft was seen resting atop a building, with nearby trees and structures severely scorched. Fire crews battled intense flames while medical personnel rushed to treat dozens of victims.

According to Air India, Flight AI171 was carrying 242 people, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. Tragically, both passengers and residents on the ground were among the dead, including several students inside the BJ Medical College and Hospital hostel.

One survivor has been identified as British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who was seated in 11A. He described the terrifying moment: “Thirty seconds after takeoff, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed. It all happened so quickly.” He is currently receiving medical care.