A heartbreaking accident happened on a Thursday afternoon when an Air India flight took off from Ahmedabad at 1:38 pm and crashed just seconds later. There were 242 people on board, including 53 British citizens heading to London. The news is deeply upsetting, especially for the Indian‑British community and those with loved ones on that flight.
What Happened During the Crash
The Air India plane left Ahmedabad heading to London’s Gatwick Airport. Sadly, just after take‑off, it crashed. All 242 passengers and crew were involved. This included 53 people holding British passports. The crash occurred before the flight could even gain altitude, creating shock and sadness for many.
Reactions from the UK Government
The UK government called the crash “devastating.” Foreign Secretary David Lammy said both London and New Delhi would set up a crisis team to help affected British families. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his sorrow, saying the images and news emerging “are devastating” and his thoughts are with everyone involved.
Statements also came from MP Gareth Thomas, MP Bob Blackman, and former PM Rishi Sunak, all offering condolences and support.
Why This Flight Was Important
Earlier this year, Air India increased its Ahmedabad‑London service from three flights a week to five due to rising demand. Many Gujaratis living in the UK use this route to travel between their homes. Around 800,000 British citizens of Gujarati origin, plus their friends and relatives, regularly fly this route, making this crash felt deeply in both countries.
Who Was Onboard
Most people on the flight were Indian nationals visiting or returning home. However, some families had members with both Indian and British passports, moving permanently between the countries. Notable passengers included wellness guru Jamie Meek and his husband Fiongal Greenlaw, plus sisters Heer and Dheer Baxi visiting their grandmother.
A British family—Inayatali Saiyed, his wife, and their two children—were also aboard. Software professional Pratik Joshi was bringing his wife, Dr. Komi Vyas, and their three kids to the UK.
Support and Reactions in India
The Indian High Commission in London cancelled a reception for the national women’s hockey team and set up an emergency helpline for visa help for affected families. In Ahmedabad and Delhi, Indian authorities are working with the UK support team to help relatives and handle emergencies.
Past Concerns About the Flight
Some British‑Indian travellers had reported delays on this route in recent months. Leicester East Conservative MP Shivani Raja shared that one plane was held back for over 24 hours because of an engine issue just a few weeks before the crash. She plans to ask Air India and India’s Civil Aviation Authority for answers about safety and delays.
Impact at London Gatwick Airport
Despite the crash in India, flights at London Gatwick continued normally. The airport and Air India are cooperating closely. A reception center is being set up in London to assist relatives who arrive looking for information or support.
This tragic crash has deeply affected families in India and the UK, particularly the Gujarati‑British community. Both governments are working together to provide help and comfort to those affected.
This difficult time highlights how vital it is for airlines and authorities to ensure safety and quick, clear communication during emergencies.
