Live: 6 Victims’ Bodies Handed Over to Families

Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed shock and devastation over the Ahmedabad plane crash involving Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, which crashed shortly after takeoff near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport with around 180 people on board. “We are on highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action,” he said in a post on X. Rescue teams have been mobilized, and efforts are underway to provide medical aid and relief at the crash site where thick smoke and flames were reported. Flight operations at Ahmedabad airport remain suspended as authorities and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) begin investigating the cause. The minister added, “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” as emergency services continue their rescue operations near the Meghani area.