Tragedy struck near Ahmedabad as a Gatwick-bound plane crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming all 242 lives on board.
The devastating accident has triggered global shock and urgent investigations into what caused the fiery disaster.
UPDATE: British Father Survived Fatal Air India Crash
Newskobo.com earlier reported that an Air India plane with over 240 people on board crash-landed near Ahmedabad Airport.
A devastating air disaster has struck the global aviation community as a passenger plane bound for London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff, killing all 242 people on board, including 53 British nationals.
The ill-fated flight, operated by a major international carrier, was en route from India to the United Kingdom when it went down in a fiery crash near Ahmedabad Airport. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a massive explosion followed by towering plumes of black smoke rising into the sky, visible for miles around. The horrifying scene unfolded within minutes of the plane’s attempted ascent.
Local emergency responders, including fire crews, medics, and aviation authorities, rushed to the crash site, but hopes quickly faded as no signs of life were found. Rescue workers battled intense flames and scorching heat to recover what remained of the aircraft and its passengers. According to sources close to the investigation, the aircraft appeared to lose altitude abruptly before plummeting into a sparsely populated area near the airport perimeter.
Among the 242 individuals confirmed dead are passengers from multiple countries, with 53 of them identified as British citizens. Officials from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office have expressed deep sorrow over the incident and confirmed that they are working closely with Indian authorities to assist in identification and repatriation efforts.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issued a solemn statement following confirmation of the tragic loss. “This is an unspeakable tragedy that has taken the lives of so many, including dozens of our citizens. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims. The government will do everything in its power to support those affected in this difficult time.”
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and assured the public of a full investigation. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of life in this horrific incident. Our emergency teams are on the ground, and an inquiry has been launched to determine what went wrong.”
Aviation experts have begun examining possible causes of the crash, including mechanical failure, pilot error, or external interference. Black box recorders are being sought at the wreckage site and will be vital in unraveling the final moments before the disaster.
Local media reports suggest the plane encountered difficulties during takeoff and may have attempted an emergency landing before crashing. However, authorities have urged the public not to speculate until official findings are released. Witnesses described hearing a loud roar followed by a sudden silence, then a massive explosion that shook nearby buildings.
As the aviation community mourns, airlines worldwide are being urged to review safety protocols. Meanwhile, families of the victims are being contacted, and grief counselors have been deployed to assist them in dealing with the immense loss.
This incident marks one of the deadliest air crashes in recent years and casts a long shadow over international travel. Investigations are expected to span weeks, if not months, as authorities piece together the tragic chain of events that led to the catastrophic loss of 242 lives.
