Authorities have reportedly confirmed at least 200 people have been killed in the plane crash which happened today (12 June) shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
There were 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian on board the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, according to Air India, with reports of one survivor of the 242 people on board.
Shocking video footage shows large plumes of black smoke as the plane crashes over a residential area in Meghaninagar. As it went down it hit a medical building, full of students having lunch at the time, reportedly killing 5 people and injuring at least 50 students who have been rushed to hospital.
The cause of the crash is not known at this early stage.
The flight took off 13:39pm local time (08:09 GMT) and was due to land at Gatwick at 6.25pm UK time. The route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was a popular flight route that occurred three times a week.
In a media statement released, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, said: "With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India flight, AI171 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."
The Tata Group, who owns Air India, also added in a statement on X, that it will offer 1 crore (£86,000) to affected families of the plane crash victims as well as provide support for rebuilding of the B J Medical's hostel.
Writing on X, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons said: "We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time."
A Boeing spokesman said: "We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders and all affected."
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his shock at the news on X, writing: "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. [I] have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected."
Air India has set up a dedicated passenger hotline number: 1800 5691 444, and another hotline number for foreign nationals on +91 8062779200.
