Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live Updates: Amit Shah meets injured in hospital; Air India's caregivers arrive in city
12 Jun 2025, 09:46 PM IST
Ahmedabad plane crash news: Union Home Minister Amit Shah briefed the media and said, "Air India flight AI171 crashed in the afternoon today, and several passengers have lost their lives. The entire country is in shock, and stands with the kin of those who have lost their lives."
12 Jun 2025, 09:07 PM IST
Ahmedabad plane crash news: Hours after the tragic London-bound Air India flight AI171 crashed in Ahmedabad, Air India's special team of caregivers arrived in the city.
Informing about the update, Air India took to X and wrote, "A special team of caregivers from Air India has arrived in Ahmedabad to provide support to our teams on ground. We are working with local authorities to provide necessary assistance and are extending full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident."
12 Jun 2025, 08:59 PM IST
A 38-year-old nurse Ranjitha Gopakimar, hailing from Thiruvalla in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, was among the victims of the London-bound Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad on Thursday, ANI quoted her family as confirming.
Earlier in the days, a London-bound Air India flight, carrying 242 people onboard, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. It struck a doctors' hostel and claimed numerous lives.
Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandesekhar and Kerala BJP chief took to X and wrote, "Tributes to Ranjitha R. Nair from Kozhencherry, who lost her life in the Ahmedabad plane crash."
According to the details, Ranjitha who worked as a nurse in the United Kingdom, was on the ill-fated flight has been confirmed to be dead, her relatives also said. She is survived by her two children and her mother who currently reside in Thiruvalla.
12 Jun 2025, 08:39 PM IST
Ahmedabad plane crash news: Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on Thursday expressed "deep sorrow" at the crashing of the airline's Boeing 787-8 aircraft with 242 people on board.
The CEO, in a video statement, said that the airline is actively working with the authorities on all emergency response efforts.
"The first and most importantly, I would like to express our deep sorrow about this event. This is a difficult day for all of us here in India. And it's now focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, their families, and loved ones," Wilson said.
12 Jun 2025, 08:33 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences over the tragic AI plane crash. She took to X and wrote, 'Deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. On behalf of the Italian Government and myself, I express my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and our full solidarity with the Indian people in this moment of great sorrow.'
12 Jun 2025, 08:19 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Amit Shah on Thursday evening arrived at the site of Ahmedabad plane crash and took stock of the situation.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, MoS Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol and Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi were also with him.
12 Jun 2025, 08:13 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Air India's owners, the Tata Group, have now announced a compensation of ₹ 1 crore to the families of each passenger who has lost their life in the deadly plane crash.
Tata Group took to social media to post the update about the compensation to families. The post reads, 'We are deeply anguished by the tragic event involving Air India Flight 171. No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured.'
12 Jun 2025, 08:09 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Air India on Thursday announced it has organised two relief flights, one each from Delhi and Mumbai, to Ahmedabad for the next of kin of passengers and Air India staff.
Here are the details:
IX1555 – Delhi-Ahmedabad
Time of departure: 11 pm on 12 June
IX1556 – Ahmedabad-Delhi
Time of departure: 1.10 am on 13 June
AI1402 – Mumbai-Ahmedabad
Time of departure: 11 pm on 12 June
AI1409 – Ahmedabad-Mumbai
Time of departure: 01.15 am on 13 June
"Next of kin of passengers and staff in Delhi and Mumbai wanting to travel on these flights can call our hotline on 1800 5691 444," Air India said.
"Additionally, those coming in from international destinations and wanting to travel can call our hotline on +91 8062779200," it concluded.
12 Jun 2025, 07:57 PM IST
Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani also among the victims who died in the crash, confirmed Union Minister CR Paatil.
12 Jun 2025, 07:53 PM IST
Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived at the crash site in Ahmedabad, where officials briefed him on the ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
He was accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, and Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi.
12 Jun 2025, 07:18 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik s confirmed one survivor in the tragic Air India plane crash. Speaking to ANI, he said, "The police found one survivor in seat 11A. One survivor has been found in the hospital and is under treatment. Cannot say anything about the number of deaths yet. The death toll may increase as the flight crashed in a residential area."
12 Jun 2025, 07:16 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu stated that the government will do a fair and thorough investigation into the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday. Though he refrained to speak on the number of casualties.
He said, as quoted by ANI, " We are going to do a fair & thorough investigation, and probe why this incident happened. We still have to find out the numbers. "Very sad to know that (BJP leader) Vijay Rupani was also there, as were other nationals."
"I am totally shaken by the tragic and horrific incident. I am still in a state of shock. The PM called me and asked me to be here at the site. At this time, I can only think of the passengers and their families. Many agencies have been engaged in rescue operations. I don't want to say anything about the numbers yet. We are extending all help. The Union Home Minister is also coming to the site here. Very sad to know that (BJP leader) Vijay Rupani was also there, and so were other nationals. We are going to do a fair and thorough investigation. We will go to the depths of why this incident happened," he added.
12 Jun 2025, 06:58 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: US' Federal Aviation Administration has stated it is ready to assist Air India after its horrific crash.
"The FAA is in contact with the NTSB regarding Air India flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad (AMD) to London Gatwick (LGW), that was involved in an accident in India on Thursday, June 12," the statement read on X.
"When an international incident occurs, that government leads the investigation. In the event assistance is requested, the NTSB is the official U.S. representative and the FAA provides technical support. We stand ready to launch a team immediately in coordination with the NTSB," the FAA added further.
12 Jun 2025, 06:56 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: King Charles III says he is 'shocked', expresses condolences
'My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones. I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time,' reads the official statement issued by the British monarch.
12 Jun 2025, 06:54 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Western Railway has announced the operation of additional trains from Ahmedabad to help manage the travel disruption caused by the incident.
"In response to the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, the Disaster Management Team of Western Railway is actively extending full support in relief and rescue operations at the site while maintaining close coordination with the State," the railway said in a statement.
"Western Railway Medical Team and RPF (Railway Protection Force) personnel have also already been deployed for assisting in rescue operations. Additionally, Western Railway will operate extra trains from Ahmedabad based on demand. As of now, one train for Mumbai and one train for Delhi are being planned from Ahmedabad," it added.
READ MORE HERE
12 Jun 2025, 06:48 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu arrived at the Air India plane crash site to take stock of the situation
12 Jun 2025, 06:43 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Live: French President Emmanuel Macron expresses condolences on the Air India crash in Ahmedabad. He took to X and wrote, "We have learned with deep emotion of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. In this time of sorrow, I extend our heartfelt thoughts to the victims' loved ones and to Prime Minister @NarendraModi.
12 Jun 2025, 06:40 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Addressing the media, Gujarat Health Department's Principal Secretary Dhananjay Dwivedi said, as quoted by ANI, 'The Air India flight bound for London from Ahmedabad had 230 passengers on board. At around 1:40 PM, the aircraft crashed into the hostel and staff quarters of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. More than 50 injured individuals have been admitted to Civil Hospital. We request the families of the passengers to submit their DNA samples which will help in identifying the victims.'
12 Jun 2025, 06:35 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Today Live Updates: On MBBS students injured in Ahmedabad aeroplane crash, Dr. Rohan Krishnan, Chief Patron, FAIMA Doctors Association, said that about 50 people may have been injured. Speaking to ANI, Dr Rohan said, "We have got information that the aeroplane crashed in the premises of BJ Medical College. There is damage to the MBBS students' hostel and the residential block of super-speciality doctors. We have received information about injuries to 50 people. Five people could not be identified yet. There is a need for blood there."
12 Jun 2025, 06:26 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Today Live Updates: Ahmedabad Police has issued a list of 25 injured in plane crash in Ahmedabad.
Additional Chief Secretary of Gujarat Health Department said, as quoted by ANI, "Ahmedabad Civil Hospital students' hostel, staff quarters and other residential areas are located in the area where the plane crashed. About 50 of those injured have been brought to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad."
12 Jun 2025, 06:20 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash Today Live Updates: Hours after the tragic Air India plane crash in the city, Ahmedabad Police chief on Thursday said that no survivors were expected after a London-bound passenger plane with 242 on board crashed and warned of more deaths where the jet smashed down.
"There appears to be no survivor in the crash," city police commissioner GS Malik told AFP. "And since the airplane has fallen on an area which was residential and had some offices, there are more casualties as well". Though he refrained from commenting on those killed on the ground.
12 Jun 2025, 06:03 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: The High Commission of Canada has expressed its condolences after the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
'Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victim,' said High Commission of Canada on X.
The plane had 242 passengers, including one Canadian national, onboard.
12 Jun 2025, 05:47 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Indian Army deploys 130 personnel to assist civil administration. The Indian Army's response includes engineering teams with JCBs for debris clearance, medical teams comprising doctors and paramedics, Quick Action Teams (QATs), fire-fighting assets with fire extinguishers and water bowsers, and provost staff for site management. The Military Hospital has also been placed on standby.
12 Jun 2025, 05:44 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Boeing Airplanes says it is in contact with Air India. The firm took to X and wrote, "We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders and all affected."
READ MORE HERE
12 Jun 2025, 05:40 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: President Droupadi Murmu expresses her condolences. She took to X and wrote, "I am deeply distressed to learn about the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. It is a heart-rending disaster. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected people. The nation stands with them in this hour of indescribable grief."
12 Jun 2025, 05:37 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Anxious family members gather outside the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad as they rush here to get an update about their loved ones who were on board the ill-fated London-bound Air India aircraft.
A man breaks down and pleads with the authority to let him in, so that he can get an update about his relative.
12 Jun 2025, 05:33 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Supreme Court CJI expresses his condolences
The Chief Justice of India and Companion Judges of the Supreme Court of India, along with the officials of the Registry express deepest condolence to the families affected by the tragic air crash at Ahmedabad today. The Chief Justice of India has also expressed his concern for the inmates of the B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad. During this difficult times our thoughts and prayers are with them. May they find strength and solace in the support of their loved ones', an official statement of the CJI read.
12 Jun 2025, 05:30 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Australian PM Anthony Albanese expresses his condolences over a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad.
He wrote on X. "The news of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad is absolutely devastating. In this time of tragedy, Australia's thoughts are with everyone affected. Our government is receiving regular updates and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.
12 Jun 2025, 05:27 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message of condolences to President of India Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad.
He said, "Please accept the deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad. Kindly convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and near ones of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe."
12 Jun 2025, 05:21 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov expresses his condolences. He took to X and wrote, "Heartbreaking news is coming from Ahmedabad.😢 My heartfelt sympathy to the families and near ones of the victims and to all Indian people and the Government of India over this tragic major catastrophe!"
12 Jun 2025, 05:19 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: ongress President Mallikarjun Kharge expresses sorrow over AI plane crash. He said, as ANI quoted, "... I pay my tribute and condolences to those who passed away. The government should immediately help the families of those who have passed away, and also the people of the area where the plane crashed... Congress leaders will also help people manage this incident. This accident should be investigated..."
12 Jun 2025, 05:10 PM IST
Ahmedabad Airport is now available for flight operations from 16:05 pm onwards, tweets MoCA, adding flight safety protocols are being followed with utmost care.
12 Jun 2025, 05:04 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, Congress Parliamentary Party expresses sorrow over AI plane crash. In a statement, she said, 'I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the families of the passengers and the crew. The visuals are most heart-wrenching. The entire country is overtaken by grief and is praying.'
12 Jun 2025, 05:03 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expresses sorrow over AI plane crash and wrote, 'The unfortunate incident in Ahmedabad has left us confronting a devastating human tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. In this moment of grief, the nation stands united in solidarity with them."
12 Jun 2025, 05:01 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission expresses sorrow over AI plane crash. She took to X and wrote, 'Heartbreaking news from India with the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss. We share your pain. Dear @narendramodi , Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow.'
12 Jun 2025, 04:49 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: MoS Defence Sanjay Seth sexpressed sorrow over AI plane crash nd said, as quoted by ANI, "It is a harrowing incident... We pray to God that the injured recover quickly and return home safely. The whole country stands with the victim's family..."
12 Jun 2025, 04:44 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel reaches Ahmedabad's Asarwa Civil Hospital, where the plane crash injured have been brought
12 Jun 2025, 04:42 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Congress MP and LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi expresses sorrow over AI plane crash. He took to X and wrote, " says, "The Ahmedabad Air India crash is heartbreaking. The pain and anxiety the families of the passengers and crew must be feeling is unimaginable. My thoughts are with each one of them in this incredibly difficult moment. Urgent rescue and relief efforts by the administration are critical - every life matters, every second counts. Congress workers must do everything they can to help on the ground."
12 Jun 2025, 04:38 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Ahmedabad City Police has issued emergency number for police emergency services. It took to X and wrote, 'Ahmedabad City Police emergency number for police emergency services and information regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash. 07925620359.'
12 Jun 2025, 04:36 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: MoS MoCA Murlidhar Mohol while speaking to media said, as quoted by PTI, "Air India's flight AI171 crashed this afternoon with a total of 242 people on board. Rescue operations are currently underway. We have held an emergency meeting. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are on their way to Ahmedabad. I am also heading to the crash site. It will take some time before we can confirm the exact number of casualties.'
12 Jun 2025, 04:32 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: After the tragic AI plane crash, Indigo has issued travel advisory. It took t X and wrote, 'Following the incident near Ahmedabad Airport and the resulting runway restrictions, flight operations are impacted. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected. We seek your kind understanding, as these are truly challenging times for everyone.'
'If your flight is impacted, you may rebook or claim a full refund via our website. Our teams remain on standby across all channels to support you,' it added.
12 Jun 2025, 04:25 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: At least 120 passengers were killed in the tragic AI plane crash in Ahmedabad, say sources.
12 Jun 2025, 04:17 PM IST
Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, comprising 90 personnel, have been moved from Gandhinagar to the plane crash site. A total of three more teams are being moved from Vadodara, said NDRF.
12 Jun 2025, 04:15 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: PM Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over AI plane crash and wrote on X, "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."
12 Jun 2025, 04:12 PM IST
After the tragic AI plane crash, the Gujarat government has issued helpline numbers. The CMO Gujarat took to X and wrote, 'The State Govt of Gujarat has set up a control room at the State Emergency Operation Centre in connection with the Ahmedabad plane crash. The concerned can contact the control room on Phone No.079-232-51900 and Mobile No.9978405304.'
12 Jun 2025, 04:08 PM IST
HM Amit Shah expresses sorrow over AI plane crash and wrote on X, 'Pained beyond words by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Disaster response forces have been quickly rushed to the crash site. Spoke with the Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Shri Harsh Sanghavi, and Commissioner of Police Ahmedabad to assess the situation.' As per details he has rushed to Ahmedabad.
12 Jun 2025, 04:04 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: UK PM Keir Starmer expressed sorrow over AI plane crash and wrote on X, "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," he added.
12 Jun 2025, 03:58 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Amid the AI171 crash, an Operational Control Room has been activated at the Ministry of Civil Aviation to coordinate all details.
MoCA asked people to contact at 011-24610843 | 9650391859
It said, 'We are committed to swift response and full support to all affected.'
12 Jun 2025, 03:45 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed his sorrow over Ahmedabad plane crash and wrote on X, "With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event. At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information."
12 Jun 2025, 03:40 PM IST
Ahmedabad Plane Crash News LIVE: Following the London-bound Air India flight crashed in Ahmedabad, the United Kingdom government released helpline numbers.
It said, as quoted by ANI, "We are aware of a plane crash in Ahmedabad. 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."
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New Indian Express
24 minutes ago
- New Indian Express
AUW! Could Air India Flight AI-171's weight have doomed it?
A pilot who had promised to come back to be with his ailing dad, who was pushing close to 90 and in need of care. A doctor couple who had dreamed of starting their life afresh in London with their three kids, two of them twins. A former Chief Minister of Gujarat who had boarded the plane to bring back his wife. The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 on the afternoon of June 12, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London, snuffed out valuable lives and has raised urgent questions about what went wrong. A day after the worst crash involving a single aircraft in India, various theories are circulating about the possible causes, from mechanical failure to environmental conditions and human error. Drawing on my experience as a retired Air Force Wing Commander and flight engineer with decades of operational experience, I would like to hazard a few guesses on the potential factors behind the crash—particularly aircraft weight, environmental parameters, engine performance, and maintenance practices. While doing so, kindly allow me to emphasise the critical importance of safety protocols and technical discipline in aviation. The weight factor One critical factor that might have to be assessed while investigating the crash of Flight AI-171 will be All Up Weight (AUW). AUW is the total weight of the aircraft, including fuel, cargo and passengers. This is calculated before every takeoff. AUW must remain within the safe limits when each aircraft takes off. AUW limits vary according to the altitude at which the runway is situated and the outside air temperature (OAT). Rain, to quote an example, can influence the permissible AUW. Then there are the locations that need to be considered as mentioned above. An aircraft that can take off with an AUW of 100 tons from the Trivandrum airport might only be able to carry 75 tons from Leh, even if the temperature at both places is the same. This is because of the variation in air density due to changes in altitude. Also, at high atmospheric temperatures, aircraft engines are pushed to their limits. This is because the engines always need high-density air for optimum performance and maximum power. But when the temperatures are high, air becomes less dense, putting limitations on engine performance. From the available videos of AI-171, it is very clear that the aircraft was able to pick up speed and lift off initially. The flaps and leading edge slats helped with the initial lift-off, further supported by the nose-up attitude. Thereafter, the aircraft could not sustain height. The temperature in Ahmedabad at 13:18 was 40 degrees Celsius. There is a high probability that during the second leg of the aircraft's take-off, the atmospherics messed up with AUW calculations, and the engines and the low-density air failed to support the overweight aircraft. Also, please remember, that handbags are rarely weighed. On an average, if each passenger carries 5 kg extra in their handbags, a total of 1 ton is added to the AUW of the aircraft, and those numbers are never going into the calculations made by the crew. There are hints that the Captain had some clue regarding the aircraft being overweight. Why do I say this? Well, AI-171 departed using the full length of Runway 23 at the Ahmedabad airport. It must be noted that Runway 23 is 11,499 feet long. The aircraft backtracked to the edge of the runway before beginning its take-off roll. A full-length runway is not usually needed for this class of aircraft. But Captain Sumit Sabharwal wanting to ensure that every inch of the runway was used is telling in retrospect. Drawing from my experience On various occasions, as military aviators, we experienced the problem of lack of thrust and lift on military aircraft, especially in high-altitude areas. On one occasion, we had to fly the aircraft a few meters above the Shyok River in the Ladakh sector for 15-20 minutes to burn the fuel to make the aircraft light. In a similar incident, we had to orbit in a valley for half an hour as the aircraft was not climbing over the Khardungla pass. But both of these were calculated risks taken due to commitment compulsions. We knew how the aircraft was going to behave. However, such a risk cannot be taken in the case of a passenger aircraft. The need to examine the state of the engines Media sources indicate that the last communication from the Captain was of there being no thrust and lift for the aircraft. This directly points to the performance of the engines. Scheduled servicing of the engines and their timely overhauling are both paramount when it comes to ensuring safety. It has to be ascertained from the engine logbooks and other records whether any kind of shortcuts or unprofessional methods were adopted in the engine maintenance and servicing activities. Even the most sophisticated engines will not perform as required if not maintained and serviced properly. Here, the aircraft was to operate close to the threshold of the flight envelope, for which it is designed, due to the very high atmospheric temperature and high AUW. In such circumstances, the engines are also expected to operate close to their maximum ratings. Only a properly maintained engine will perform as required at its maximum ratings. As a flight engineer, I have seen military aircraft engines performing at their max ratings for longer durations than prescribed by the OEM (original equipment manufacturer). Again, to make an engine operate confidently at max ratings at your will, you must be very confident about the engine maintenance activities. Examining the sabotage angle and the bird-hit theory There is a claim that the flaps and leading edge slats got retracted after takeoff without input from the pilot. It is true that if the control surfaces do not respond in time, this can lead to a loss of lift. But the aircraft was in its second leg and the first leg was uneventful. Also, a non-responsive control surface can happen, only if there is a software issue, hydraulic system failure, or a FOD (foreign object damage—a term used in aviation to represent loose articles getting inside engines or control surface actuating parts, affecting their performance). And here comes the sabotage angle. But remember, the aircraft was in its second leg after an uneventful first leg. And also, nonresponsive control surface will lead to a loss of lift only, not thrust, as called out by the captain. Bird hit causing an accident of such a magnitude is also unlikely. Even a big bird, like an eagle, will easily pass through the engines of such an aircraft and come out in ashes, temporarily raising the EJT (Exhaust Jet Temperature) . It will not lead to the stalling of the engine. In the case of the famous flight accident over Hudson River, it was a huge flock of birds that caused the stalling of both engines. Both engines failing due to bird hits can also be ruled out. But then the captain never called out an engine flame out. Had there been such a flame out, it would have the first warning seen in the cockpit and the captain would be calling out that. This never happened. What also needs to be examined is whether there was a wind reversal and a resultant tail wind factor during takeoff. A sudden and strong tailwind can also lead to such an accident. Importance of CVR, how machines behave and cloud over Air India Once the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) are analysed, the truth will come out. The last words of the crew, recorded in the CVR, are very important in an air accident investigation. The fact that the lone survivor was sitting very close to the front emergency exit on the port side of the aircraft reiterates the need to emphasise on the emergency rescue procedure for air passengers. The emergency door might have blasted off because of the heat and pressure, and the survivor was able to escape through the exit. Having operated military aircraft for many years, I can say one thing very categorically. No machine will give away all of a sudden. If it's a machine failure, it might have given a number of warnings in various forms to the operators and the maintenance staff. It is for the human to understand those warnings in time and take remedial actions to bring the machine back in line. This is the thumb rule for any machine. AI-171 too would have then given enough warnings if there had been a technical issue. Whether there were such warning signs and whether any remedial measures were taken can be found out only during the investigation. Till then, the question marks on the maintenance culture of Air India, once a government company, will remain. (Wing Commander A Mahesh (Retd) was a flight engineer with IAF and is a keen follower of the latest developments in the aviation industry.)
Mint
27 minutes ago
- Mint
'Darkest day in Tata group's history': What N Chandrasekharan told employees on Air India plane crash
Air India plane crash: The day after the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad that claimed over 240 lives, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, chairman of the Tata Group, described 12 June as one of the "darkest days in the Tata Group's history" in an internal letter to employees. Chandrashekharan's message conveyed deep sorrow and solidarity with the Air India lane crash victims' families, reflecting the profound impact of the disaster on the entire organisation. A London bound Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college in Ahemedabad, merely seconds after take-off, resulting in one of the deadliest aviation disasters, and the first fatal accident of this aircraft model. The aviation tragedy killed everuyone on board, except one person seated on 11A. The tragic incident also killed 5 MBBS doctors, one PG resident doctor, and the wife of a senior doctor at the medical college. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the Air India plane crash, with experts considering factors such as engine failure or technical issues during take-off. This is a very difficult moment. What occurred yesterday was inexplicable, and we are in shock and mourning. To lose a single person we know is a tragedy, but for so many deaths to occur at once is incomprehensible. This is one of the darkest days in the Tata Group's history. Words are no consolation right now, but my thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the people who died and were injured in the crash. We are here for them. I want to say that, like you, we want to understand what happened. We don't know right now, but we will. You know that in the past 24 hours, investigative teams from India, UK, and the US have arrived in Ahmedabad to investigate the crash. They have our full cooperation, and we will be completely transparent about the findings. We owe it to the families and loved ones, to our pilots and crew, and to you. The Tata Group takes its responsibility to society seriously, and that includes being open about what occurred yesterday. Right now, our very human instinct is to look for explanations that make sense of the calamity. There is plenty of speculation all around us. Some of it may be right, some of it may be wrong. I want to urge patience. We witnessed an enormous loss of life yesterday. Why this routine flight turned into a calamity is something trained investigators will help us understand when their work is complete. Once we have verified facts, we will be transparent in our communication about how this tragedy took place. As a Group trusted by so many, when we took over Air India, ensuring the safety of its passengers was our first and foremost priority. There was no compromising on it. None of this matters to the people who suffered devastating losses yesterday. At this time, we can only assure them of our full support. We will pull together as a Group and find ways to help them. We built this Group on trust and care. It is a difficult moment, but we will not retreat from our responsibilities, from doing what is right. We will carry this loss. We will not forget. In a letter to Air India on Friday, the DGCA outlined a series of mandatory checks for the airline's entire Boeing 787-8/9 fleet, effective from 15 June 2025. The one-time pre-departure inspections include fuel parameter monitoring and related system checks, cabin air compressor and associated systems inspection, electronic engine control-system tests, operational tests of engine fuel-driven actuators, oil system checks, serviceability checks of the hydraulic system, and a review of take-off parameters, the aviation watchdog said.
Time of India
31 minutes ago
- Time of India
IITian Gaurav Taneja, himself a pilot, on possible reasons of Ahmedabad Air India plane crash
Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads About the Ahmedabad plane crash As the country reels from the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad, speculation and grief have swept across social media platforms. With more than 200 lives lost, including passengers and 12 crew members, the tragedy has left a deep scar, drawing reactions from political leaders, film stars, and aviation experts alike. Amid the calls for accountability and answers, one voice that's garnered wide attention is that of IITian and former commercial pilot Gaurav Taneja—best known online as Flying Beast Taneja, who holds a in Civil Engineering from IIT Kharagpur and is a certified pilot with over a decade of flying experience, shared his initial analysis on X (formerly Twitter). He hinted at a catastrophic mechanical failure. According to his tweet, such a steep descent shortly after take-off from a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner could point to a dual engine failure , a scenario he described as 'extremely, extremely, extremely rare.''Nothing short of a complete power loss can force a modern aircraft into that kind of sink rate, right after take off,' wrote Taneja, adding prayers for all on board. His post quickly gained traction, with followers seeking deeper clarity. When asked about the likelihood of such an event, especially on a well-inspected international flight, Taneja explained that if an aircraft loses both engines just after take-off at an altitude of 600 feet with structures ahead, even the most experienced pilot is rendered transitioning into content creation, he served as First Officer in 2011 and was promoted to captain in 2014. Since stepping back from commercial flying in 2020, he has amassed a massive online following, offering insights on to ANI reports, a total of 241 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, have died in the devastating Air India Flight 171 crash near Ahmedabad. The sole survivor, a British national of Indian origin, is Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating on the Ahmedabad to London Gatwick route, took off on June 12, 2025, but crashed moments later into a resident doctors' hostel near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Air India confirmed the fatalities in a statement posted on X. The aircraft was piloted by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a Line Training Captain with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 hours. A Mayday call was made, but the aircraft lost contact soon after. The Tata Group has announced a compensation of Rs1 crore for the families of each deceased passenger.
