A devastating plane crash occurred in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Thursday, June 12th, when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB) crashed while taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport en route to London.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Thursday proved disastrous for Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat, when an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed during takeoff. The aircraft, destined for London, suddenly descended near the boundary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in a loud explosion and a plume of smoke. The lives of all 242 passengers and crew members on board were put in jeopardy.
According to initial reports, the aircraft was carrying two pilots, eight crew members, and 232 passengers at the time of the accident. Minutes before the crash, the pilot issued a Mayday call, indicating a serious technical malfunction.
Aircraft Involved: VT-ANB Dreamliner
The crashed aircraft, registration number VT-ANB, was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in the Air India fleet. It was delivered to Air India in January 2014, with its maiden flight on December 14, 2013. Its serial number is 36279 and line number LN-26. This aircraft was designed for international flights and used for long-haul routes.
Dreamliner Features: A Blend of Technology and Comfort
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a state-of-the-art aircraft, considered a leader in both technology and passenger comfort. Its features include:
- Passenger Capacity: 248
- Business Class Seats: 18
- Wingspan: 60 meters
- Length: 57 meters
- Height: 17 meters
- Range: 7,305 nautical miles (approximately 13,530 km)
- Engine Options: General Electric GEnx-1B or Rolls-Royce Trent 1000
This aircraft was primarily used for destinations such as Europe, America, and Australia.
Mayday Call: A Final Warning
Minutes before the accident, the pilot issued a Mayday call to the control tower. 'Mayday' in international aviation terminology signifies an emergency situation, indicating the aircraft is in grave danger and requires immediate assistance.
Following this call, the airport's emergency units were alerted, but within moments, the aircraft, after takeoff, showed instability and rapidly descended near the airport boundary. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion and a large plume of smoke.
Rescue and Relief Efforts: Air India's Swift Response Air India responded swiftly, releasing a hotline number (1800 5691 444) for the families of passengers to provide information and assistance. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and fire brigade teams immediately arrived on the scene. The injured were admitted to nearby hospitals. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation, and the recovery of the black box is underway.
Technical Causes Under Investigation by DGCA
While the exact cause of the accident remains unclear, initial suspicions point towards a major engine or technical system malfunction. While the Boeing 787-8's GEnx-1B engine has experienced some technical issues globally in the past, this is the first incident of this magnitude reported in India.
This accident raises serious questions about India's aviation safety policies and infrastructure. Several aviation incidents in recent years highlight the need for increased focus on training, inspections, and maintenance.
