A major aviation tragedy struck India today as an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after take-off near Ahmedabad airport, with 242 people onboard, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.

The Gujarat State Police Control Room confirmed the incident, which occurred around Thursday afternoon. Eye-witnesses reported thick plumes of smoke visible as far as Vastrapur, triggering panic in surrounding neighborhoods.

Rescue Operations in Full Swing

Emergency services, including fire and medical teams, were rushed to the crash site. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has mobilized six teams, including three from Gandhinagar and three from Vadodara, comprising over 180 personnel for rescue and relief operations.

Top Officials React, Central Help Assured

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with Gujarat’s Chief Minister, State Home Minister, and Police Commissioner, assuring full central government support for rescue and relief operations.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed deep shock and said, "We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation. All aviation and emergency response agencies have been directed to take swift and coordinated action."

Air India Confirms Incident

Air India issued a formal statement:

"Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest on our X handle."

VIP Among the Passengers

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is suspected to be among the passengers onboard the ill-fated aircraft. There is no official confirmation on his condition yet.

Current Status

Details about casualties or survivors are awaited. Hospitals across Ahmedabad have been placed on high alert, and local authorities are coordinating with central agencies for emergency medical aid.

(With agency inputs)