Flight operations at Gujarat's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) have come to a complete standstill following the Air India plane crash incident on Thursday. According to a statement from the airport spokesperson, all arrivals and departures have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
The suspension, implemented as a precautionary and safety-driven measure, aims to facilitate ongoing emergency protocols and investigations surrounding the crash. Authorities have not yet provided a timeline for the resumption of regular services, the spokesperson added. Meanwhile, passengers scheduled to travel via SVPIA have also been advised to check with their respective airlines for updates and alternative arrangements.
"Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London, Gatwick, earlier today, was involved in a crash shortly after takeoff, outside the airport. As a result, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, is currently not operational. All flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice. We request your cooperation and patience as authorities manage this evolving situation," the spokesperson added.
Team rushed to spot for investigation
Notably, an Air India plane from Ahmedabad to London with 242 passengers crashed in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday. Confirming the incident, Air India said that Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident on Thursday. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said that a team has been rushed to the spot for investigation.
Details of the incident
It should be noted here that the aircraft was under the command of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar. Capt Sumeet Sabharwal is an LTC with 8200 hours of experience. The copilot had 1100 hours of flying experience, the official further added. As per ATC, the aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1339 IST (0809 UTC) from runway 23.
It gave a mayday Call to ATC, but thereafter, no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC. Aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on the ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site, said the official. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen at the accident spot, and fire tenders have reached the spot.