Tragedy in Ahmedabad: Air India Dreamliner Crashes Minutes After Takeoff, Scores Feared Dead

Mayday Call and Immediate Fire

The aircraft issued a mayday signal shortly after takeoff at 13:38 local time and reached an altitude of approximately 625 feet before crashing into Meghani Nagar, causing a devastating fire. Smoke and flames engulfed a nearby doctors’ hostel, hindering rescue efforts. Rescue teams are working urgently to clear debris and treat injured survivors. Many fatalities are feared, though no official death toll has been released.

Passenger and Crew Nationalities

• 169 Indian nationals
• 53 British nationals
• 7 Portuguese nationals
• 1 Canadian national
• 2 pilots
• 10 crew members

Rescue Response Intensifies

State emergency services, including teams from Gandhinagar and Vadodara, have deployed more than 180 personnel. Firefighters, ambulances, and the National Disaster Response Force are on site. Authorities have cordoned off the area and closed nearby roads to expedite rescue work.

India’s Leaders React

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel confirmed the deployment and instructed hospitals to treat survivors on a war footing. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said authorities are on "highest alert" and monitoring the situation closely. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and global leaders, including the British prime minister, have expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation.

First Fatal Crash of Boeing 787

The aircraft, registered VT-ANB and delivered in 2014, marks the first ever fatal hull loss of a Boeing 787 since its service debut in 2011. Boeing acknowledged the crash and said it was gathering information. The model is widely recognized for its safety and efficiency.

Airport Operations Suspended

Ahmedabad airport has halted all flight operations pending a full investigation. Air India and its parent Tata Group announced an emergency support line for families of those aboard.

Investigation Underway

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), along with Boeing representatives, have launched inquiries into the cause. Early speculation points to rapid fuel ignition and possible structural or mechanical failure during ascent, but investigators warn it is too early to draw conclusions.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow.