A tragic aviation disaster involving a 787 Dreamliner has shaken the global community after an Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing more than 200 people.

The aircraft, operating Flight 171 en route to London Gatwick, went down Thursday morning, crashing into a local medical college just a mile from the runway.

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One Survivor Amid Mass Casualties

India's Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that one passenger survived the crash and is now receiving medical treatment. "We received the good news that one passenger survived. I have personally met this survivor," Shah said at a press conference. The survivor was later identified by a doctor as Vishwashkumar Ramesh, according to the Associated Press.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, registered as VT-ANB, reached only 625 feet in altitude before disappearing from radar, as reported by Flightradar24. A mayday was issued, but air traffic controllers reportedly received no response from the cockpit.

Devastation on the Ground

The crash inflicted further tragedy when the plane struck a medical college's dining facility during lunchtime, killing at least five students, said Dr. Minakshi Parikh, dean of the college.

Videos circulating online showed thick black smoke rising above the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital vicinity.

Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the U.S. and British investigators are both dispatching teams to support the investigation. The incident is now under scrutiny from multiple global aviation bodies.

This marks the first total loss of a 787 Dreamliner since its commercial debut in 2011, according to Business Insider.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171,” said Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, adding that the company is “standing by to support the investigation.”

Political and Corporate Reactions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, calling the tragedy “heartbreaking beyond words,” and said he has been in contact with authorities assisting on the ground.

U.S. President Donald Trump called the disaster "one of the worst in aviation history."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer added: “I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”

Market and Fleet Impacts

The crash sent Boeing stock tumbling 4.7% in early trading. Analysts at Morgan Stanley noted that the disaster “derails the positive momentum on Boeing’s stock,” which had climbed 25% this year.

The aircraft had previously flown to major international hubs including Paris, Frankfurt, Tokyo, and Melbourne in the days leading up to the crash.

Air India’s Challenges

The crash comes at a time of transition for Air India, which was acquired by Tata Group in 2022. As part of its turnaround, the airline placed a $70 billion order for 470 new aircraft, including more modern jets to replace its aging fleet. However, supply-chain issues have delayed deliveries.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson assured the public that the company’s teams are “working around the clock” to assist families and investigators.

Aviation Expert Weighs In

Aviation consultant Alastair Rosenschen commented to Sky News: “If the landing gear was still down, then that would suggest that something is untoward,” referencing images showing the jet’s gear un-retracted.

Related reading:

• Air India crash: Boeing stock dips after Dreamliner disaster
• History of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner