The Chief Minister of Gujarat – where Ahmedabad is state capital – says officials have been instructed to carry out “immediate rescue and relief operations” and to make arrangements on a “war footing”.
“I have also instructed officials to arrange a green corridor to transport the injured passengers for treatment and to ensure all necessary medical arrangements are made at the hospital on priority,” Bhupendra Patel writes on X, external.
In a statement posted on X, Air India’s chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, says “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,” he says.
“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.”
