Ahmedabad Crash: Police, Aviation Ministry Issue Hotlines — Here’s Where to Reach Out
According to aviation officials, the flight took off from runway 23 at 1:39 PM and made a MAYDAY call shortly after. But before further communication, the signal was lost.
Aryan K 
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], June 12: A London-bound Air India flight, AI171, carrying 242 passengers, crashed five minutes after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The crash happened in a crowded residential area near the city. Locals were left shocked as thick black smoke filled the sky. Screams and cries replaced the regular noise of the neighbourhood. Many students in a nearby hostel witnessed the crash from close quarters. The plane hit parts of a hostel building used by intern doctors at BJ Medical College, leaving debris scattered across rooftops and streets.
Emergency Helplines Issued
As news broke across the country, authorities moved fast. Ahmedabad Police shared an emergency number — 07925620359 — for the families of passengers. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation activated its control room and shared its contact details — 011-24610843 and 9650391859. These numbers are being used to share updates and help families reach their loved ones. In the middle of chaos, these lines have become a lifeline for many waiting for answers. The government is doing all it can to provide emotional and medical help.
Airport Operations Suspended
After the crash, operations at the Ahmedabad airport were suspended. Authorities said the runway and nearby areas needed to be secured before allowing flights again. People were advised not to travel to the airport and instead wait for updates from their airlines. The Gujarat government arranged for a green corridor to shift injured passengers quickly to nearby hospitals.
National and Global Response
The crash brought messages of grief from across India and the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “stunned and saddened.” He promised full support and immediate action. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu rushed to Ahmedabad. Rahul Gandhi urged his party workers to help in rescue efforts. The UK Prime Minister was also informed as 53 British nationals were on the flight. Embassies of Canada and Portugal are closely watching the situation, offering support to their citizens.
A Sudden Mayday Call
According to aviation officials, the flight took off from runway 23 at 1:39 PM and made a MAYDAY call shortly after. But before further communication, the signal was lost. The crash site is now surrounded by rescue teams, National Disaster Response Force, and doctors. TATA Group, which manages Air India, expressed deep sorrow. “Every life matters,” their chairman said in his statement. This tragic moment is now one of the darkest chapters in the city’s history, reminding everyone of the unpredictability of life.
