Air India Crash Claims Over 200 Lives

A devastating plane crash near Ahmedabad, India, on Thursday has resulted in a confirmed death toll exceeding 200, with the possibility of further casualties as rescue efforts continue. Air India flight AI-301, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 1:38 p.m. local time. Initial reports indicate the aircraft impacted a medical college accommodation building southwest of the airport, causing significant damage and igniting a large fire.

While authorities initially feared no survivors, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik later confirmed the recovery of at least one survivor, identified as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, who is receiving medical attention for multiple injuries. Reports suggest Ramesh is a British national, though this remains unconfirmed by TIME. The flight manifest details a diverse passenger list including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but the pilot, Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 flight hours), and co-pilot, Clive Kundar (1,100 flight hours), reportedly issued a mayday call prior to the impact, suggesting awareness of a potential issue. This incident marks the first-ever crash involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, raising questions about the aircraft’s safety record despite Boeing’s generally strong history. The company is cooperating with investigators and has provided an initial statement. It’s a grim reminder of the 2018 and 2019 crashes that led to a $1.1 billion settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice.

The response from global leaders has been swift and somber. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his shock and sadness, stating he was in contact with relevant ministers and authorities. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Sir Keir Starmer, and King Charles III all offered condolences and expressed sympathy for the victims and their families. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro also conveyed their condolences.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson confirmed that injured passengers were transported to local hospitals. Tata Group, Air India’s parent company, has pledged approximately $116,000 to the families of those who perished.

The reopening of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport just hours after the crash highlights the urgency of restoring normalcy, but the focus remains firmly on the ongoing rescue operation and the investigation into what caused this tragic event. The scale of the disaster is heartbreaking, and the coming days will be crucial in determining the precise cause and implementing measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of life is a stark reminder of the inherent risks of air travel, and the need for constant vigilance and rigorous safety standards.