Ahmedabad: A passenger aircraft carrying 242 people, including crew members, crashed shortly after attempting to land at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Wednesday afternoon, according to Indian aviation authorities.
The flight, operated by Air India Express, was en route from Dubai to Ahmedabad when it reportedly encountered severe technical difficulties during its final approach. Initial reports suggest that heavy rainfall and poor visibility may have contributed to the incident. Eyewitnesses near the airport described seeing the aircraft wobble before crashing near the runway and erupting into flames.
Emergency response teams were dispatched immediately. Firefighters, paramedics, and disaster response personnel worked for hours to rescue passengers from the wreckage. As of the latest official statement, at least 81 people have been confirmed dead, with more than 120 injured — many critically. Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out a rise in the death toll.
“It's a heartbreaking day. We are doing everything possible to save lives,” said Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who visited the crash site alongside senior officials. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals, and special emergency units have been deployed.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings point toward a possible failure in the aircraft's landing gear system, though officials stress that it is too early to determine the exact cause.
Air India Express, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow and confirmed that a full inquiry is underway in coordination with national and international aviation safety boards. The airline has also set up a helpline for families of those on board.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via social media, calling it a “devastating tragedy” and assuring full support for rescue efforts and the investigation.
This marks one of the deadliest aviation incidents in India in recent years. More updates are expected as officials continue to assess the aftermath.
