Ahmedabad air crash: Air India flight AI171 crashes en route to London, NDRF teams deployed; Ex Gujarat CM aboard

A major aviation incident unfolded on Thursday as Air India’s Flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a crash. The airline confirmed the incident through its official handle on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the crash occurred earlier today and that details are still emerging.

Also read: Breaking: Air India flight crashes at Ahmedabad airport, carrying 242 passengers

In response to the accident, three teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been urgently deployed to the crash site from Gandhinagar to aid in rescue and relief operations, according to reports from news agency ANI.

Significantly, it has been reported that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers on board the ill-fated flight. However, there is no official confirmation yet regarding his condition.

Air India stated that it is actively working with relevant authorities and emergency services to assess the situation and support affected families. “We are gathering further information and will provide updates as soon as possible,” the airline’s post read.

Authorities are yet to officially release the number of passengers and crew aboard, or the precise location and cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to launch a full investigation.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Gujarat and across the nation, with leaders and citizens anxiously awaiting updates on passengers’ safety. More details are expected as rescue operations progress.