Introduction
A devastating Air India plane crash shook Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, claiming 265 lives and leaving only one survivor. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI-171, was en route to London Gatwick when it crashed into a residential complex near BJ Medical College, moments after takeoff. This tragedy marks one of the worst aviation disasters in India’s history.
Key Details of the Crash
- Flight Details: Air India AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM.
- Passenger Count: The flight carried 242 passengers, including 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.
- Survivor Found: Authorities confirmed that only one person survived the crash.
- Impact Site: The aircraft crashed into a medical college complex, causing additional casualties on the ground.
- Investigation Underway: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the probe, with efforts focused on retrieving the black box to determine the cause.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents near the crash site described a loud explosion, followed by plumes of black smoke rising from the wreckage. Mukesh, a local driver, recalled, “There was a deafening screech, then suddenly fire, iron, and steel began to rain from the sky”. Rescue teams faced immense challenges due to the intense heat and destruction at the crash site.
Compensation and Response
- Tata Group’s Pledge: ₹1 crore compensation for each victim’s family.
- Air India’s Liability: ₹1.5 crore compensation under the Montreal Convention treaty.
- Political Reactions: Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the strong bond between India and Britain.
- Boeing’s Market Impact: Following the crash, Boeing’s share price dropped 5%, marking the first-ever complete loss of a 787 Dreamliner.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are working tirelessly to identify victims through DNA testing, given the severity of the crash. The black box retrieval remains crucial in understanding the final moments before impact. Meanwhile, London’s Gatwick Airport has set up a reception center for relatives of the victims.
Conclusion
The Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad has left the nation in mourning. As investigations continue, families await answers, and the aviation industry faces renewed scrutiny. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities uncover the cause behind this tragic accident.
