• Source:JND
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Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Flight operations have resumed at Ahmedabad airport following a suspension of services and closure of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in the wake of an Air India flight crash on Thursday.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the airport is now available for flight services from 4:05 PM onwards. 

"Flight safety protocols are being followed with utmost care," the statement said.

Reacting to the incident, N Chandrasekaran Chairman, Air India said, "With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event. At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted. Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information."

Shortly after takeoff on Thursday, an Air India plane traveling from Ahmedabad to London crashed.

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Around 242 passengers, including two pilots and ten cabin staff, were on board Flight AI171 when it crashed in the Meghani Nagar neighborhood, well beyond the airport's boundaries.

“Thick plumes of smoke were observed at the crash site. Fire tenders and emergency services were immediately dispatched,” said a senior official from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The pilot in command, Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal, had 8,200 flying hours, while First Officer Clive Kundar had logged 1,100 hours.

Air India confirmed the incident, stating that the flight was heading for London's Gatwick Airport and was involved in a significant mishap shortly after departure.

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Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “We are on the highest alert. I am personally monitoring the situation and have instructed all aviation and emergency response teams to act swiftly. Rescue operations are underway, and medical support is being rushed to the site.”

To guarantee a coordinated response, Naidu, who was in Vijayawada for government anniversary festivities, took an instant flight to Ahmedabad and is working with top officials from the DGCA, the Airports Authority of India, the NDRF, and Gujarat State authorities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also called with Gujarat's Chief Minister, Home Minister, and Police Commissioner, assuring them that the Central government will fully help rescue and relief efforts.

According to sources cited by news agency ANI, PM Modi also spoke to Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu regarding the incident. He told them to visit Ahmedabad and make sure all the necessary assistance is extended to those affected due to the air mishap.

Meanwhile, rescue effort is underway at the crash site.