In a deeply tragic event that has shaken the nation, Air India flight AI171, a London-bound Boeing 787-8, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, leading to the death of at least 297 passengers. The incident occurred on Thursday, with the aircraft hitting a nearby medical college complex, erupting into flames, and causing massive devastation both on the ground and in the air. This accident is now being recognized as one of the worst aviation disasters in Indian history.

As authorities scrambled to respond to the crisis, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport issued a public advisory to confirm that the airport continues to remain fully operational. It urged the public not to panic and shared dedicated helpline numbers for any queries or assistance related to the Air India crash in Ahmedabad. These emergency contact numbers have been set up to assist passengers, their relatives, and concerned individuals who are seeking updates about those on board flight AI171.

The official helpline numbers provided by the airport authorities are: +91 99741 11327, 079-29900291, and 079-29900391. The administration has asked people to rely only on these verified contact points for operational updates, passenger information, and other support services related to the Air India plane crash.

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressed deep sorrow and personally visited the crash site and the City Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad to oversee the situation. He held a high-level review meeting at the GujSail building near the airport, where he was briefed in detail about the sequence of events, the emergency response mechanisms in place, and the steps being taken to manage the aftermath of the accident.

In a message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said, “We are all devastated by the air tragedy in Ahmedabad. The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and heart-breaking manner is beyond words. Condolences to all the bereaved families. We understand their pain and also know that the void left behind will be felt for years to come. Om Shanti.”

Meanwhile, Air India, which has been under intense public scrutiny following this tragic incident, announced that it has activated a network of Friends & Relatives Assistance Centres (FRACs). These have been strategically established at four major airports – Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gatwick (London). These centres are offering logistical assistance to family members, organising their travel to Ahmedabad, and providing essential psychological and material support to the affected individuals.

In addition to the physical centres, Air India has launched dedicated helplines for both domestic and international callers.

• For those calling from within India, the helpline is 1800 5691 444

• For those calling from outside India, the helpline number is +91 8062779200

The crash of Air India flight AI171 has not only sent shockwaves through the Indian aviation industry but also prompted global concern, especially from Indian diaspora communities with loved ones in transit. The flight, which was supposed to transport 242 people to London, tragically ended in disaster within minutes of takeoff.

Eyewitnesses from the area near the crash site reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by smoke billowing from a building adjacent to the medical complex. Emergency responders including fire brigades, medical units, NDRF teams, and local law enforcement rushed to the scene within minutes, but the sheer scale of destruction made rescue operations extremely difficult. Of the 242 onboard, 241 have been confirmed dead, and one passenger remains in critical condition in intensive care.

This Air India crash in Ahmedabad brings to light serious concerns around flight safety, aircraft maintenance, and airport response preparedness. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already launched a full-scale investigation. The black box has been recovered, and forensic and aviation experts are currently analysing the data to determine the exact cause of the crash.

Sources close to the investigation believe the aircraft experienced engine failure within moments of liftoff, which could have resulted in the pilot’s attempt to make an emergency landing, unfortunately without success.

Ahmedabad airport, despite being just steps away from the accident, remains operational, with enhanced safety measures now in place to manage air traffic and assist ongoing investigation activities. Passenger security and crew training protocols are also being reviewed nationwide.

As news of the crash continues to dominate media coverage, the government has assured that compensation and full support will be extended to the families of the victims. Emergency grief counselling, DNA identification procedures, and international liaison officers are being deployed to help relatives abroad.

In light of this horrific incident, aviation experts and government authorities are urging the public to stay informed through official sources only, as misinformation is currently spreading online. A national mourning period may be declared pending further decisions by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

In conclusion, the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, with its catastrophic loss of life, has become a moment of deep national mourning and reflection. The response from the airport authorities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Air India’s support system underscores the urgency and seriousness of this tragedy. Citizens are encouraged to use the official helpline numbers and assistance centres set up by Air India for updates and support.

With ongoing investigations and safety audits underway, India’s aviation infrastructure is now under the global spotlight. While no words can undo the grief this disaster has caused, it is critical that systems are improved and accountability is enforced so that such a tragedy never occurs again.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are HDB Financials, ArisInfra Solutions, Influx Healthtech, Mayasheel Ventures, Eppeltone Engineers, Patil Automation, Samay Projects Services.

The Current active IPO are Oswal Pumps, Aten Papers, Monolithisch India.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.