Air India Plane Crash: Aviation Ministry Activates Operational Control Room, Helpline Numbers Issued

In the wake of the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has activated an Operational Control Room to coordinate all rescue, response, and passenger assistance efforts. The flight was en route to London Gatwick and carried over 240 passengers when it crashed near Meghani Nagar.

This central control center has been set up to streamline communication, manage updates from the crash site, and provide verified support to the families of the passengers onboard.

Air India also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information.

Emergency Helpline Numbers for AI171 Crash

The following 24/7 helpline numbers have been released by the Ministry for families and concerned individuals:

011-24610843

9650391859

These lines will provide updates on passenger status, ongoing rescue efforts, and official procedures being followed by the authorities. Families of passengers have been urged to reach out only via these official numbers to avoid misinformation and panic.

About Air India Flight AI171

Flight AI171 was a scheduled international flight from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). The aircraft took off at 1:38 PM IST and tragically crashed just minutes later, reportedly into a building near the airport perimeter. Emergency teams, fire services, and police responded quickly, and investigations by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are now underway.

Control Room to Handle AI171 Crash Operations

The Operational Control Room, established at the Ministry of Civil Aviation, will:

Coordinate real-time updates from the crash site

Liaise with DGCA, Air India, and local authorities

Ensure timely dissemination of accurate information to the public

Assist with identification of passengers and logistics for family members