Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Rahul Gandhi, CM Yogi, CM Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, DK Shivkumar Express Grief

The Gujarat Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel, has directed immediate rescue and relief efforts following the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. Injured passengers are to receive urgent medical attention. The incident has led to a complete halt of operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA). All flights have been suspended until further notice as authorities manage the situation.

Flight AI 171, bound for London Gatwick from Ahmedabad, crashed shortly after takeoff. The accident occurred near Meghaninagar, close to the airport. An Air India spokesperson confirmed the incident and stated that all flight operations at SVPIA are on hold. Passengers are advised to check with airlines for updates and alternative travel plans.

Political Reactions:

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi called the Ahmedabad Air India crash is heartbreaking. In his post on X, Rahul Gandhi expressed sorrow saying: "The pain and anxiety the families of the passengers and crew must be feeling is unimaginable. My thoughts are with each one of them in this incredibly difficult moment. Urgent rescue and relief efforts by the administration are critical - every life matters, every second counts."

Rahul Gandhi also requested the Congress workers to do everything they can to help on the ground.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath offered condolences to family members of the victims, stating: "The plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is extremely sad and heart-wrenching. My condolences to the families of all the passengers and crew members."

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis reacted to the saddening incident, stating: "Pained and shocked to know about Air India passenger flight incident at Ahmedabad airport. Praying for everyone's safety 🙏"

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also prayed for the injured, saying: "Absolutely devastated by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad - a national tragedy that has shaken every Indian heart. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for strength to those grieving and a swift recovery for the injured.

"My thoughts are also with the anxious families awaiting news - the nation stands with you."

Karntaka Deputy CM DK Shivkumar also shared his thoughts through a post on X. He said, "Deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic accident of the Ahmedabad-London flight during take off in Ahmedabad. My deepest condolences to everyone affected, especially the families enduring this unimaginable loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted on the ground during this difficult time. Wishing for everyone's safety and a swift emergency response."

Investigation Underway

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has dispatched a team to investigate the crash site. The aircraft was piloted by Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, an LTC with 8,200 hours of experience, alongside First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 flying hours. The plane departed from runway 23 at 13:39 IST (08:09 UTC) but failed to respond after issuing a mayday call.

Thick black smoke was visible at the crash site outside the airport perimeter. Emergency services, including fire tenders, have arrived at the scene to manage the situation. Authorities have not provided a timeline for when normal operations will resume at SVPIA.