Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad sending thoughts with those everyone affected by it. He also said that he is touch with ministers and authorities working on the ground.
"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," he said in a post on X.
Shortly after the crash was reported, Modi spoke to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and took stock of the situation and also assured all possible assistance.
Simultaneously, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to assess the situation after the London-bound AI171 Air India flight carrying 242 people onboard crashed shortly after taking off.
Air India confirmed that its flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, met with an accident today after take-off.
"The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals," the carrier said on X.