Key Points

The CJI and Companion Judges of the Supreme Court of India, along with officials of the Registry, expressed deepest condolence to the families affected in the air crash at Ahmedabad, according to a release from the Supreme Court.

The Chief Justice of India has also expressed his concern for the inmates of the B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad.

"During these difficult times, our thoughts and prayers are with them. May they find strength and solace in the support of their loved ones," said the CJI.

An Air India plane from Ahmedabad bound for London Gatwick with 242 passengers and crew members crashed in the Meghaninagar area near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport shortly after it took off.

According to Air India, flight AI171, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hours had on board 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian national and seven Portuguese nationals.

National Disaster Response Force teams are at the site of the crash.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident in Ahmedabad, terming it "heartbreaking beyond words." He conveyed his condolences and assured assistance to those affected.

According to the post, PM Modi has been closely monitoring the situation and is in constant communication with state authorities.

"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," the Prime Minister wrote.

The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an LTC with 8,200 hours of flying experience. He was assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of flying experience, the official said.

As per Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft departed from Runway 23 at 1339 IST (0809 UTC). It gave a mayday call to ATC, but thereafter, no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC.

"Aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on the ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site," the official added.

- ANI