Air India plane crash: UAE to Ahmedabad flights face uncertainty amidst tragic accident

Dubai: Flights between the UAE and Ahmedabad are experiencing some delays following a tragic Air India plane crash shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad today. The London Gatwick-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Flight AI171, carrying 242 people, including passengers and crew, crashed in the Meghani Nagar area just beyond the airport perimeter.

UAE airlines are actively monitoring the situation. Dubai carrier flydubai confirmed to Gulf News that they are "saddened to hear about the unfortunate incident today and extend our sincere condolences to all those affected. We are monitoring the situation closely and our flights to Ahmedabad are currently operating to schedule."

However, SpiceJet Flight SG016, originally scheduled to depart from Dubai International at 7:25 pm, has been rescheduled to 11:30 pm. As of the reporting time, all Emirates operations to Ahmedabad are expected to operate as usual, with an inbound Emirates flight from Ahmedabad arriving in Dubai at 5:53 am.

The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, departed from Runway 23 at approximately 1:39 pm IST. Moments after take-off, the crew issued a "Mayday" distress call before losing contact with Air Traffic Control. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed the incident, stating the aircraft crashed into a residential area, including a doctor's hostel.

While official figures on casualties and survivors are still being ascertained, initial reports indicate a significant number of fatalities. The incident has led to the suspension of all flight operations at SVPIA, rendering the airport non-operational until further notice. This suspension has directly impacted flights, including those connecting to and from the UAE.

Air India has confirmed the incident and stated that its primary focus is supporting all affected individuals and their families. The airline has activated an emergency centre and deployed support teams for families seeking information. Chairman of Air India and Tata Sons, N Chandrasekaran, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic accident.

Passengers scheduled to travel between the UAE and Ahmedabad are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight status and potential re-routing.

This is a developing story.