Over 120 Feared Dead in Air India Plane Crash; 5 Dead At Medical Students' Hostel

TDT | Manama

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A devastating air crash in Ahmedabad has left over 120 people feared dead after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London, crashed into the hostel building of BJ Medical College just minutes after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The plane, carrying 242 people—including 232 passengers and 10 cabin crew—plunged into a residential zone five minutes after departure, slamming into the medical students’ hostel around lunchtime. Five medical students—four undergraduates and one postgraduate—lost their lives in the building, and several others were injured as debris tore through the structure.

The accident occurred at a low altitude of just 825 feet, failing to gain lift before crashing. Shocking visuals circulated online showed black smoke rising into the sky and part of the aircraft embedded in the hostel wall. Images from inside revealed food plates left mid-meal in the canteen and shattered interiors.

Sources say over 120 people are feared dead, combining casualties from both the aircraft and the impacted hostel. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is reportedly suspected to have been on board the ill-fated flight.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief, calling the tragedy “heartbreaking beyond words,” and confirmed that he is closely monitoring developments. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu is on his way to Ahmedabad to assess the situation on the ground.

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Ahmedabad airport has suspended all flights, and rescue operations are ongoing.