In a tragic update following Thursday’s Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, the airline has confirmed that only one of the 242 people onboard survived. The flight, AI171, a 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed just five minutes after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
According to Air India’s official statement posted early Friday on X (formerly Twitter), the aircraft took off at 1:38 PM with 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. The crash occurred shortly thereafter, killing 241 people. The only survivor is a British national of Indian origin, who is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.
The flight was carrying a diverse group of passengers: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian citizen. The airline expressed its deepest condolences to the families of those who perished in what is being described as one of the worst air disasters in India’s aviation history.
Air India has pledged full cooperation with Indian authorities as they launch an investigation into the cause of the crash. In addition, the airline has announced support measures for grieving families, including dispatching a team of caregivers to Ahmedabad for assistance.
To facilitate communication and updates for families of the victims, Air India has set up a dedicated helpline. For callers within India, the toll-free number is 1800 5691 444. For those calling from abroad, the number is +91 8062779200.
The airline’s statement concluded: “We remain committed to supporting the investigation and doing everything in our power to support those affected by this unimaginable tragedy.”
Sources By Agencies