What Happened in the Air India Dreamliner Crash?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Emergency relief efforts are ongoing for the survivors of Flight AI 171.
- A dedicated helpline has been established for families.
- The Civil Aviation Ministry is coordinating the response through an operational control room.
- There were 242 passengers on board, including various nationalities.
- Investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
Ahmedabad, June 12 (NationPress) In the wake of the devastating incident involving Air India's Flight AI 171, which was traveling from Ahmedabad to London, emergency relief and rescue operations are currently underway.
As the nation holds its breath for the more than 200 passengers aboard, Air India has set up a specialized helpline to assist families and loved ones seeking updates on their status.
"A dedicated passenger hotline has been established: 1800 5691 444 for providing further information," stated Air India in an official announcement.
Additionally, the Civil Aviation Ministry has initiated a control room to manage all information related to the AI 171 crash.
"In response to the AI 171 incident, an Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry of Civil Aviation to oversee all related details. For inquiries, call: 011-24610843 | 9650391859. We are dedicated to a rapid response and complete support for all those affected," the Ministry posted on X.
The ill-fated flight took off from Ahmedabad at 13:38 hours, carrying a total of 242 individuals, including passengers and crew aboard the Boeing 787-8. Among them are 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national, and seven Portuguese nationals.
Injured individuals are being transported to the nearest healthcare facilities.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, expressed deep sorrow over the airline tragedy, emphasizing that the airline's primary concern is to support all affected individuals and their families.
"We are exerting every effort to aid the emergency response teams on the scene and to offer all necessary assistance and care to those impacted," he remarked in a statement.
The aircraft departed from Runway 23 at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Authorities reported that a ‘Mayday’ (distress) call was made shortly after takeoff; however, no further communication was received from the cockpit.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) noted in their statement that the aircraft crashed outside the airport perimeter, indicating it did not gain altitude properly post-takeoff.