A London-bound Air India flight crashes in Ahmedabad, killing 241. One survivor identified; rescue efforts ongoing. Boeing 787 crash under global scrutiny.
Catastrophic Crash in Ahmedabad
An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route to London crashed into a residential area near Ahmedabad airport early Thursday, killing 241 people on board and injuring dozens on the ground. Only one passenger survived the crash, according to Indian and airline officials.
Flight Path Ends in Tragedy
The aircraft, carrying 229 passengers and 12 crew members, lost altitude moments after takeoff and plummeted into a densely populated neighbourhood. Black smoke engulfed the area as the plane exploded upon impact, igniting nearby buildings and killing at least five medical students living in a college hostel.
Rescue and Response
Firefighters and Indian Army teams worked through thick smoke and flaming debris to recover bodies and assist the injured. Gujarat state police and emergency medical responders confirmed the extent of the devastation, describing most of the victims as charred beyond recognition. Officials say many may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
Survivor Identified
The lone survivor was identified as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British national of Indian origin. Doctors treating him at a local hospital reported multiple injuries, though his condition is now stable. According to early testimony, Ramesh was ejected from the aircraft when it broke apart mid-air.
Investigation Underway
India’s civil aviation authority confirmed the aircraft issued a mayday signal but lost all communication shortly after. This marks the first fatal crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, prompting global scrutiny. Boeing stated it is cooperating with Indian authorities and launching its own investigation.
International Reactions
Leaders from around the world expressed condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “heartbreaking beyond words,” while U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged full support to affected British families. King Charles III also conveyed his sympathies, calling the crash “tragic across so many nations.”
A Global Loss
Passengers aboard included 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. Air India confirmed that their priority now is to support the families of victims and assist with international coordination for the deceased.
Aviation Safety Concerns Rise
The crash has reignited concerns over Boeing’s safety record, with shares of Boeing Co. plummeting nearly 9% in early U.S. trading. Aviation experts expect flight data recorders to provide critical insights in the coming days.
A Tragic Echo in Indian Skies
This disaster ranks among India’s worst aviation tragedies since the 1996 midair collision near Charki Dadri. The nation, along with the global aviation community, now awaits answers as to how a modern aircraft on a routine international route could meet such a horrific end.
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