An Air India flight bound for London crashed during takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday, killing all 300 passengers on board, according to initial reports.
The Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services Department responded swiftly, deploying five fire engines to the crash site. Local officials told the Gujarat Samachar that the resulting fire was quickly contained, and rescue and recovery operations are underway. Authorities have closed all roads leading to the airport to secure the area and facilitate emergency efforts.
Paramilitary forces, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the National Security Guard (NSG), have been dispatched to assist with the operation.
Residents of Meghaninagar reported hearing three loud explosions, followed by thick black smoke rising from the airport vicinity. The exact cause of the crash remains unclear. An investigation has been launched by local authorities in coordination with airport officials.
As of now, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other national aviation authorities have not issued any public statements regarding the incident.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.