India has launched a formal investigation into the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, which killed 241 people, including passengers and crew, on Thursday afternoon. The plane, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was en route to London’s Gatwick Airport when it crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad.
Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau to Lead Probe
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will carry out the investigation. The inquiry will follow global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Naidu said in a public statement, “Following the tragic incident in Ahmedabad, a formal investigation has been initiated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, in line with international protocols set by ICAO.”
One Survivor Found
The crash had 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. Out of all those on the flight, only one person survived. Video footage shared online showed the aircraft crashing into a building and a nearby medical college, immediately erupting into flames.
Expert Committee to Examine Cause
In addition to the official investigation, the Indian government plans to set up a special high-level panel. This group will include experts from multiple sectors to study the reasons behind the crash and recommend improvements to aviation safety practices.
Naidu added, “The committee will work to strengthen aviation safety and prevent such incidents in future.”
United Kingdom to Assist in Investigation
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and confirmed that the British government would send a team to India to help with the investigation. The team will also support the families of British nationals who lost their lives.
The flight included 53 British citizens, along with seven Portuguese nationals and one Canadian.
Sharing his condolences, Starmer posted on X, “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”
