A London-bound Air India flight carrying 242 passengers crashed during takeoff at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, as reported by NDTV.
The incident occurred as Flight AI C171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was departing for London. According to initial reports, the aircraft lost contact shortly after reaching an altitude of 625 feet and crashed within the Meghani Nagar area, close to the airport premises.
Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud noise and seeing thick black smoke billowing from the site, with visuals of the aftermath widely circulated on social media.
Emergency protocols were immediately activated. Multiple fire and rescue teams, including at least five firefighting vehicles, rushed to the scene to control the blaze and assist with evacuation efforts.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of injuries or fatalities. Families of passengers have gathered at the airport and nearby hospitals, anxiously seeking information about their loved ones.