Air India has released detailed information on the nationalities of those on board Flight AI-171, which tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, en route to London Gatwick.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying 242 people, including 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew members.
Among the passengers was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
According to a statement issued on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the passenger list included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals and one Canadian.
The aircraft departed Ahmedabad airport at 1:38 PM IST, but within minutes, it crashed near the Meghaninagar area, just outside the airport perimeter. Eyewitnesses reported thick black smoke rising from the crash site. Emergency crews responded swiftly, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.
Air India has activated a dedicated emergency support hotline: 18005691444, to assist families and concerned individuals. The airline also confirmed its full cooperation with authorities investigating the crash.
“We remain committed to supporting all affected passengers and their families in every possible way,” the airline stated.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran issued a heartfelt statement following the accident saying, “With profound sorrow, I confirm that Air India Flight 171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event.”
He added that emergency response teams were on-site and that the airline had established a crisis center and support teams to aid families.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the aircraft took off from runway 23 at 1:39 PM IST (0809 UTC). Shortly after departure, it reportedly issued a Mayday call before losing all contact with Air Traffic Control. The plane crashed moments later.
The aircraft was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with 8,200 flight hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of flight experience.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed deep shock and confirmed he was personally monitoring the situation. He said, “All aviation and emergency response agencies have been directed to act swiftly and in coordination. Medical aid is being rushed to the site,” he stated, adding that he had left Vijayawada for Ahmedabad immediately upon hearing of the crash.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reviewed the situation and spoke with Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Home Minister, and Police Commissioner, assuring full support from the Central Government.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ordered immediate rescue and relief operations, placing hospitals on high alert to handle any survivors or casualties.
This developing tragedy marks one of the gravest aviation disasters in recent Indian history. Investigations are ongoing.
