At least 270 lives were lost in a devastating plane crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, leaving families in mourning and authorities scrambling for answers.
Tragedy Strikes as Air India Plane Crash Claims 270 Lives
Tragedy Strikes as Air India Plane Crash Claims 270 Lives
Death toll rises and vigils held nationwide as investigations into the crash unfold.
In a heart-wrenching incident, the death toll from an Air India plane crash has tragically risen to 270, following the disaster that occurred shortly after the aircraft took off from Ahmedabad en route to London. Reports indicate that 270 bodies have been recovered, with the lone survivor being a 40-year-old British man.
The plane encountered severe issues less than a minute after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, ultimately crashing into a residential building utilized for housing doctors near the BJ Medical College and Civil Hospital. Initial investigations suggest the majority of those deceased, totaling 241, were passengers and crew members on Flight AI171.
As the search continues, emergency teams have also been tasked with identifying those who perished on the ground. The local medical community has been firmly engaged, with the President of the Junior Doctors' Association confirming the receipt of numerous victims' remains.
The inquiry is being spearheaded by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), aided by specialists from the US and UK. Resources have been allocated towards analyzing a recently recovered black box, which is anticipated to provide crucial insights into the circumstances leading to the crash.
In the wake of the tragedy, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has mandated comprehensive safety assessments of Air India's Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 fleets, emphasizing the need for preventative measures.
In a show of solidarity, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site on Friday, expressing his condolences and support to the injured, including the sole survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh. Air India’s CEO Campbell Wilson also visited the site, calling it a profoundly emotional experience.
As vigils are held to honor the victims both in India and the UK, the ongoing investigations aim to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again.
