Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], June 12: All flight operations at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad have been suspended temporarily following the crash of an Air India aircraft shortly after takeoff on Thursday, according to an official statement.
“Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was involved in a crash outside the airport soon after takeoff. As a result, the airport is currently not operational, and all arrivals and departures are suspended until further notice,” said the SVPIA spokesperson.
Passengers have been advised to check directly with their airlines for the latest updates before heading to the airport. “We request your patience and cooperation as the situation is being managed by the concerned authorities,” the statement added.
Air India confirmed that the flight, operating on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had 242 individuals on board—including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian citizen. The injured are being rushed to nearby hospitals, and a dedicated passenger helpline—1800 5691 444—has been activated for queries and updates.
According to Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft took off from runway 23 at 13:39 IST and issued a mayday call shortly after. Contact was lost soon afterward. The aircraft crashed just outside the airport perimeter, with heavy black smoke seen billowing from the site.
Air India stated it is fully cooperating with investigating authorities to ascertain the cause of the crash.