Ahmedabad, June 14 — The number of casualties in the Ahmedabad plane crash has risen to 274, as confirmed by local authorities. The tragic incident involved an IndiFly Airways Airbus A320, which crashed during its final approach to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Friday evening. Victims include passengers on the aircraft as well as residents from the densely populated neighborhood where the crash occurred.
The flight, identified as IF-481, was en route from Delhi to Ahmedabad with 189 passengers and 8 crew members. According to early reports, the aircraft lost control shortly before landing and struck a residential zone adjacent to the airport boundary.
Preliminary Probe Points to Weather and Technical Issues
Initial findings indicate that low visibility due to a sudden dust storm may have contributed to the crash. Aviation officials have not ruled out mechanical malfunction. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has commenced a thorough investigation and confirmed the recovery of the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which are expected to provide insights into the final moments of the flight.
“We are analyzing the technical details and voice communication logs. A detailed report will be shared after complete examination,” said DGCA Director Anuj Malhotra.
Extensive Loss of Life and Property
Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and fire services reached the crash site within minutes. The crash caused widespread destruction, damaging homes and vehicles in the vicinity. Out of the 274 confirmed fatalities, 197 were onboard the flight, while 77 were civilians caught in the impact zone on the ground.
Hospitals in the city, including Civil Hospital, Apollo Hospital, and SAL Hospital, have admitted over 90 injured individuals, many of whom are in critical condition. Burn treatment and trauma units are working at full capacity to provide care.
Relief Measures and Official Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy and assured full assistance from the Centre. “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in the Ahmedabad air crash. Prayers are with the affected families,” he said in a statement.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the accident site and local hospitals, announcing a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹2 lakh for each injured person. A three-day state mourning has been declared in Gujarat as a mark of respect to the victims.
Calls for Enhanced Aviation Safety
The crash has renewed concerns about flight safety standards, particularly in regions with rapidly expanding urban development near airport zones. Experts are urging the DGCA to re-evaluate approach paths to busy airports and review pilot protocols for adverse weather landings.
As the investigation progresses, attention is also turning toward accountability and preparedness. This incident marks one of the worst aviation tragedies in recent Indian history, leaving a profound impact on the nation.
