AHMEDABAD, India — A passenger aircraft carrying more than 200 people crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, according to local fire service officials.
The plane, reportedly en route to London, went down moments after takeoff, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky — visible from several parts of the city.
The aircraft type, airline, and casualty figures had not been confirmed at the time of publication.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene as firefighters battled the blaze.
“We are at the site of the crash, but it’s too early to confirm the extent of damage or any fatalities,” a senior fire department official told AFP.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“I am shocked and devastated by news of the crash,” he said in a statement. “My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families.”
The minister said he was personally overseeing the response efforts and had directed all relevant agencies to act swiftly.
“Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are rushed to the site,” he added.
As investigators and emergency services scramble to assess the situation, families of passengers and crew are expected to gather at the airport and local hospitals in search of answers.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to launch a full investigation into the cause of the crash once rescue operations allow.
