Air India flight bound for UK crashed into medical college with '242 on board' in devastating scenes
The Air India flight bound for Gatwick which was 'involved in an accident after take off' crashed into a medical school with 242 passengers and crew on board.
Air India flight 171 departed from Ahmedabad airport earlier today (12 June) at 13.38 local time, with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft carrying 242 people.
Ahmedabad police has since confirmed that the 'Air India plane crashed into a medical college hostel', according to CNBC.
The aircraft crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel in Ahmedabad, the FAIMA Doctors Association said.
In a statement on X, the FAIMA Doctors Association added: "We are deeply shocked about the news of AI, crashing in Ahmedabad!
"News have become more gruesome after finding out that flight had crushed in BJMC, Hostel & many MBBS students have also been injured!!!!"
They added: "We are monitoring the situation closely & are ready for any help!"
Air India confirm that 53 British nationals were on board
Air India said in a statement earlier this morning that 'Flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off'.
"The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, one Canadian national and seven Portuguese nationals." the airline said.
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X that 'the tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us'.
"It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," he added.
UK Government's response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has commented on the 'devastating' incident and has issued his support to the families of those on board.
He said: “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating.
“I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”
The Foreign Office said the 'UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support to those involved'.
"British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000," they added.
Gatwick Airport, where the plane was due to land, said: "We can confirm that flight AI171 that crashed on departure from Ahmedabad Airport today was due to land at London Gatwick at 18:25."
LADbible Group has contacted the BJ Medical College hostel for comment.
Topics: Travel, UK News, World News, Air India
Anish Vij