Praful Patel arrives in Mangalore following Air India crash

Mangalore, May 22 (ANI): Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel has arrived here to assess the situation after the Air India Express Flight from Dubai to Mangalore crashed while landing at the Mangalore Airport this morning.

Earlier this morning, Praful Patel had briefed the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, about rescue operations that were being carried out at the crash site.

Meanwhile, a probe team from Mumbai will arrive Mangalore today May 22 to inspect the crash site and determine the cause of the mishap.

Air India officials on Saturday confirmed eight survivors including four children had survived the Mangalore crash.

"The crash took place at around 6: 03 a.m. There were total 160 passengers, excluding six crew members. 158 are feared dead," said Anup Kumar, Director, Air India.

ANI