A passenger jet en route to London Gatwick Airport in Sussex has crashed into a residential area shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad in western India.
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:39 IST. Within seconds of take-off, the aircraft issued a mayday call, then lost all contact with air traffic control at just 625 feet of altitude, according to flight tracking data.
It came down just outside the airport perimeter in a densely populated neighbourhood. Emergency crews are at the scene and investigations are now underway.
242 People on Board
India’s aviation regulator, the DGCA, confirmed that 242 people were on board at the time of the crash — including two pilots and 10 cabin crew. The passenger manifest includes:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
The flight was bound for London Gatwick Airport in Sussex, and was expected to arrive later this evening UK time.
Pilot Experience and Initial Findings
The DGCA says the captain had 8,200 hours of flight experience, while the co-pilot had logged 1,100 hours.
The aircraft reportedly encountered difficulties within moments of departure from Runway 23. Although a mayday call was made, no further communications were received.
Boeing Statement
Aircraft manufacturer Boeing has acknowledged the incident in a statement:
“We are aware of initial reports and are working to gather more information.”
Investigation Launched
A full investigation has been launched involving Indian aviation authorities, Boeing, and international air safety experts. Recovery teams are searching the crash site, and local hospitals have been placed on high alert.
The number of casualties or survivors has not yet been confirmed.
Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
