BREAKING: Many feared dead as London-bound plane crashes with 242 passengers onboard

A devastating air disaster occurred in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad on Thursday when an Air India passenger jet carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff.

The aircraft, Flight 171—a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—was en route to London Gatwick when it reportedly issued a mayday call moments before losing contact with air traffic control. According to India’s civil aviation authorities, the plane was carrying 230 passengers, two pilots, and 10 cabin crew members.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror as thick plumes of black smoke rose from the crash site, located just outside the airport perimeter in a densely populated neighborhood. Emergency responders rushed to the area, battling flames and debris in a desperate attempt to rescue survivors.

India’s Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, expressed shock and devastation over the incident, directing all emergency and aviation response teams to swiftly mobilise.

“Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are rushed to the site,” he said, extending thoughts and prayers to the families of those on board.

Confirming the tragic event, Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran issued a statement, 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.”

An emergency centre has been activated by the airline, alongside a dedicated support team to assist families seeking information.

India has a history of deadly air disasters, including a devastating 1996 mid-air collision over New Delhi that claimed nearly 350 lives, and a 2010 Air India Express crash in Mangalore that killed 158 people.

One of the country’s deadliest incidents remains the 1985 Air India bombing off the coast of Ireland, which killed all 329 people on board.

Thursday’s crash is now the latest in India’s aviation history and has sparked nationwide mourning.

Rescue operations and investigations are underway as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash and account for all passengers.