Air India Flight Crashes After Takeoff, Killing Over 100
A tragic disaster struck western India on Thursday when Air India Flight 171, en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner plunged into a residential area, slamming into a medical college hostel and triggering a massive explosion and fire. All 242 people on board are presumed dead, with no known survivors.
Victims and Devastation
The flight carried 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and over 160 Indian citizens. Local authorities warn the death toll may be even higher, as the crash destroyed parts of the building and likely killed people on the ground. Ahmedabad’s police commissioner Gyanendra Singh Malik stated, “There appear to be no survivors,” adding, “some locals would also have died.”
Response from Boeing and Rescue Efforts
As rescue teams battled the blaze and searched through wreckage, Boeing offered support. “We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them,” the company said. “Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders and all affected.” This marks the first fatal crash involving the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a model used by over 50 airlines worldwide.
UK Reaction and Royal Statement
The tragedy sent shockwaves across the UK. King Charles released a rare personal message, saying: “My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning.” He offered “deepest possible sympathy” to the victims’ families and praised emergency responders: “I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time.”
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