New Delhi/Ahmedabad, June 12: An Air India plane carrying 242 passengers crashed near Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. Relief and rescue operations are underway at the accident site. The airline has issued hotline number 1800 5691 444 for this.
Air India has issued a statement saying that “There were 242 passengers and crew members on board this flight number AI-171 Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1:38 pm. Of these, 169 are Indian citizens, 53 British citizens, 1 Canadian citizen and 7 Portuguese citizens. The injured are being taken to nearby hospitals.” The airline said that a dedicated passenger helpline number 1800 5691 444 has been set up for more information.
The airline said that Air India is fully cooperating with the authorities investigating the incident.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said in a statement, “With great sadness I confirm that Air India Flight 171 flying Ahmedabad London Gatwick crashed today. Our condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating incident. Our primary focus at this time is to support all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in power to assist the emergency response teams on site and provide all necessary assistance and care to those affected. Further updates will be shared as soon as we receive more verified information. An emergency center has been activated and a support team has been set up for families seeking information.”