In a heartbreaking incident early Thursday, an Air India plane crashed just short of the runway in Ahmedabad in the western Indian state of Gujarat, local media outlets and authorities confirmed. The deadly accident claimed the lives of all 242 passengers and crew on board.
Footage captured by a CGTN Stringer shows the aftermath: twisted metal, billowing smoke, and emergency responders racing against time. Eyewitnesses described a silent, grim scene as rescue teams worked under hazy skies to recover remains.
According to the ANI news agency, local authorities reported no survivors. As India’s aviation sector grapples with this tragedy, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation is expected to launch a full investigation, analyzing flight data, maintenance records, and air traffic communications to determine the cause.
The community in Ahmedabad has been deeply affected. Moment-of-silence vigils took place at local landmarks, and volunteers organized support networks for families awaiting news of their loved ones. National leaders expressed their condolences and pledged swift action to uncover the circumstances behind the crash.
This devastating event serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities of air travel safety. As investigators piece together the final moments of the flight, the global aviation community watches closely, hoping to learn lessons that could prevent future tragedies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
