What Happened When an Air India Plane Crashed into a Hostel for Intern Doctors?

Ahmedabad, June 12 (NationPress) An Air India flight AI-171, destined for London's Gatwick Airport, tragically crashed mere moments after its departure on Thursday, leading to the immediate suspension of all operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The aircraft collided with a residential hostel housing intern doctors shortly after takeoff, resulting in a fierce blaze and extensive destruction.

Reports indicate that more than eight individuals are presumed dead, with many others injured or unaccounted for.

Initial findings suggest that the plane's wing struck the third, fourth, and fifth floors of the multi-storey hostel located near Meghani Nagar.

This collision initiated a devastating fire that quickly consumed the building, which was home to over 50 residents, including young medical interns and their families.

Many were trapped inside the inferno, while others jumped from upper floors in a frantic bid to escape.

Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes of chaos and despair.

“A man tossed his child from the fourth floor in a desperate attempt to save her,” shared a local observer.

A woman who leaped from that same height suffered life-threatening injuries.

As the flames engulfed the building, multiple residents were seen escaping through windows.

While official death tolls are pending, sources indicate that the casualty count may exceed eight to nine fatalities following the Air India plane's impact with the intern doctors' hostel.

In a troubling development, authorities reported thefts occurring during rescue efforts.

Ransacked safes and personal belongings were discovered within the hostel, with cash, jewelry, and mobile devices reportedly pilfered by individuals masquerading as volunteers.

This has incited outrage among both citizens and officials.

Meanwhile, the Airport Authority has retrieved the aircraft's black box—a vital device that captures flight data and cockpit communication.

This will be essential in reconstructing the sequence of events leading to the crash.

Preliminary analysis points to a potential double-engine failure caused by bird strikes shortly after takeoff, though this has yet to be confirmed by investigators.

Rescue operations persisted into the late hours of Thursday, with fire brigades, NDRF teams, and emergency responders laboring diligently at the scene.

The severely damaged structure is at risk of collapse, further hindering rescue efforts.

Updates are anticipated as investigations and rescue operations continue.