In a devastating incident, an Air India flight headed to London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Thursday. The aircraft, carrying 242 individuals including former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, burst into flames upon impact in a densely populated area near the airport.

The plane, identified as flight number AI 171, departed from Ahmedabad at 1:39 PM en route to London Gatwick. Moments after takeoff, the pilot issued a MAYDAY alert to Air Traffic Control, but communication was lost soon after. The aircraft reportedly went down in the Meghani Nagar area, close to the Mental Hospital campus and within the vicinity of the Horse Camp residential zone.

According to preliminary reports, the crash may have been triggered by the aircraft's rear section striking a tree during ascent. Following the impact, the plane ignited, turning into a fireball. Emergency teams including the fire brigade and medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the site. Rescue operations are ongoing, with injured passengers being rushed to nearby hospitals.

Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed the location of the crash, while Fire Officer Jayesh Khadiya stated that several fire engines were deployed to douse the flames.

Air India posted an official statement on social media, acknowledging the crash and stating that efforts are underway to gather more details.

The aircraft was crewed by Captain Sumit Sabharwal, who had 8,200 hours of flying experience, and co-pilot Clive Kunder, who had logged 1,100 hours. Both were on duty at the time of the incident.

In light of the tragedy, authorities have sealed all routes leading to Meghani Nagar, and a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the crash.