In a tragic first, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner—widely considered one of the safest aircraft in aviation history—has crashed. The Air India flight, headed for London, went down minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, marking the first-ever crash of a B-787 Dreamliner.
Experts say that if the incident involved a dual engine failure, it would represent an almost unheard-of event with odds of 1 in 10 million.
Putin on the Air India plane crash
The devastating crash has drawn national and international attention. Russian President Vladimir Putin extended condolences to Indian leaders, saying, “Please accept my deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of the plane crash at Ahmedabad Airport. Please convey my sympathy and support to the families of those killed and my wishes for a swift recovery to those injured in the crash.”
CJI Expresses Concern for Hospital Inmates
The crash site of Air India Flight, Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad, is home to residential buildings for doctors and staff of BJ Medical College. Witnesses said the plane slammed into the quarters, causing severe damage to several buildings, some of which caught fire.
“There are several five-floor buildings that serve as residential quarters. Many people in those apartments were injured as the buildings also caught fire,” said one eyewitness. While official numbers are yet to be confirmed, multiple injuries have been reported.
The tragedy has also shaken India’s judiciary. In an official statement, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and Supreme Court judges, along with Registry officials, expressed sympathy.
“The Chief Justice of India has also expressed his concern for the inmates of the B J Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad. During these difficult times, our thoughts and prayers are with them. May they find strength and solace in the support of their loved ones,” the CJI said.
Authorities continue rescue operations and investigations into what caused this rare and tragic event.
