An Air India plane has crashed near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, confirms the State Police Control Room. A total of 242 passengers, including 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew were onboard the Ahmedabad-Gatwick Air India flight.
Among the passengers 53 were Britons, one Canadian national and seven Portuguese nationals.
Within 5 minutes of takeoff at 1:39 PM the plane crashed and turned into a fireball.
“It gave a MAYDAY Call to ATC, but thereafter no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC,” said the DGCA in a statement.
Fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the blaze.
“A team of over five fire vehicles from various city divisions has reached the location. Fire control measures are being carried out as a precaution,” a senior fire department official said.
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As of now, there are no reports of injuries or casualties. The cause of the incident and the extent of damage to the aircraft are yet to be ascertained.
According to reports an internal inquiry has been initiated and a technical team is assessing the situation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to the Gujarat Chief Minister, Home Minister and the Police Commissioner regarding the plane crash and has assured all possible assistance.
Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has expressed shock over the incident.
"Shocked and devastated to learn about the flight crash in Ahmedabad. 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. Rescue teams have been mobilised, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site,' tweeted Kinjarapu.

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