Air India Flight Crashes Near Ahmedabad After Takeoff; Ex-Gujarat CM Suspected Onboard

Photo: AP

A major aviation emergency unfolded today when an Air India passenger plane carrying 242 people crashed near Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, which was heading to London’s Gatwick Airport, had just taken off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM when it went down within five minutes of flight.

Videos posted by local residents on social media showed large clouds of thick black smoke billowing into the sky near the airport. People living nearby rushed outside after hearing a loud noise and saw smoke coming from the crash site.

The airport has been shut down immediately following the incident. All flights in and out of Ahmedabad have been suspended, and passengers at the airport have been evacuated as a safety measure.

Top Leaders React

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed his shock over the crash. In a statement, he said,

“Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”
He further assured that rescue teams have been rushed to the site, and every effort is being made to offer medical help and relief to those involved.

Ex-Gujarat CM Possibly Among Passengers

In a stunning development, reports from TV9 suggest that former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the passengers on board the ill-fated flight. However, official confirmation from authorities is still pending. Security has been tightened across key locations in the city as a precaution.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Rescue operations are currently underway with fire trucks, ambulances, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams on the ground. Medical teams are on high alert, and hospitals across the city have been put on standby.

The exact number of injuries or deaths has not been confirmed yet. Air India is expected to release a full list of passengers soon.

Crash Under Investigation

Air India released a brief statement acknowledging the incident, confirming that the flight was en route to London Gatwick and that further details will be shared as the investigation progresses. The crash occurred very close to the airport’s outer boundary.

Authorities from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have launched a full investigation. Black box recovery and technical assessments will help determine what went wrong.

More updates will follow as this story develops.