London-Bound Airplane Carrying 200 Passengers Crashes after Take-Off

• A London-bound Air India flight has crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, western India, with more than 200 passengers onboard
• Tracking data indicates the aircraft lost signal at just 625 feet, moments after departure
• Authorities have mobilised emergency response teams as reports suggest the plane came down in a residential area

A London-bound Air India flight crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, western India, with more than 200 passengers onboard.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the aviation industry, prompting swift emergency responses, BBC confirmed.

Air India confirms incident involving flight AI171

Air India confirmed the crash, stating, "Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today."

The airline has yet to release further details on the circumstances surrounding the crash or the condition of those onboard.

Tracking data shows last signal at 625 feet

Flight-tracking website Flightradar24 reported that the aircraft’s last recorded signal was received at an altitude of 625 feet (190m), "just seconds after take-off."

This data suggests the plane encountered difficulties almost immediately after departing Ahmedabad’s airport.

Plane crashed in residential area

Early reports indicate that the aircraft came down in a residential area. Details on casualties among passengers and local residents remain unclear, with emergency teams working rapidly to assess the situation and provide aid.

Indian aviation minister expresses shock

India’s Aviation minister, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, reacted to the crash, saying he was "shocked and devastated." He pledged swift government action to address the emergency.

See the X post below:

Government on highest alert, rescue efforts underway

Minister Naidu reaffirmed the government's commitment to managing the crisis, stating, "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 added that rescue teams had been mobilised and efforts were underway to provide medical aid and relief support to those affected.

"My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families," he said.

Authorities continue to assess the situation, with updates expected as rescue operations progress.

Plane crash

The year 2025 has witnessed several aviation incidents worldwide, raising concerns about flight safety.

In January, a mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Washington, D.C., resulted in 67 fatalities. February saw a tragic commuter jet crash in Alaska, claiming 10 lives.

In March, a Honduran aircraft plunged into the sea, killing 13 passengers. Additionally, a Delta Airlines jet overturned upon landing in Toronto, injuring 18 people.

Investigations into these incidents continue as authorities work to improve aviation safety measures.

Everything to know about Democracy Day celebrated on June 12

Legit.ng earlier reported that June 12 is celebrated annually in Nigeria as Democracy Day, marking a pivotal moment in the country's democratic history. However, this wasn’t always the case.

Nigeria initially observed Democracy Day on May 29, commemorating the transition from military rule to democratic governance in 1999.

For 18 years, from 1999 to 2018, May 29 was the official day to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey.

Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng