By Gloria Nosa
A devastating aviation tragedy unfolded early Thursday as a London-bound passenger plane carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff, slamming into a residential complex for doctors near the airport in Nagpur, central India.
According to early reports from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft—a wide-body jet operated by IndoAir International—lost contact with air traffic control minutes after departing Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport at around 3:10 a.m. local time. The plane was en route to London Heathrow with 229 passengers and 13 crew members on board.
The crash occurred in a densely populated residential zone allocated for medical professionals working at the nearby government hospital. Eyewitnesses described a fiery explosion followed by screams and chaos as the aircraft tore through several buildings, leaving a trail of destruction.
Casualties and Emergency Response
As of the latest update, local authorities have confirmed over 200 fatalities, including passengers, crew, and residents on the ground. The exact number is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
Emergency responders, firefighters, and military units have been deployed to the scene. Dozens of injured survivors—many suffering from severe burns and fractures—have been rushed to nearby hospitals, overwhelming medical facilities.
One resident, Dr. Priya Menon, narrowly escaped the blast. “I had just stepped out for my morning shift when I heard a deafening roar. Seconds later, the building behind me erupted in flames,” she said tearfully. “So many colleagues and families were inside.”
Authorities Launch Investigation
Indian aviation authorities have initiated a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. Early indications suggest a possible mechanical failure or bird strike, though officials stress that it is too early to draw conclusions.
The black boxes have been located and are being analyzed by aviation experts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has ordered a high-level inquiry. “This is a national tragedy,” Modi said. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. The nation mourns with them.”
The British High Commission in India has confirmed that over 70 UK nationals were on board and is working closely with Indian authorities to assist affected families and coordinate repatriation of remains.
Global Reactions and Support
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described the crash as “deeply tragic,” adding that consular teams are on the ground in India. International leaders, including those from the EU, U.S., and UN, have extended condolences and offered assistance.
Meanwhile, aviation regulators in both India and the UK have temporarily grounded similar aircraft models as a precaution pending further findings.
A Nation in Mourning
Flags have been lowered across Maharashtra state, where the crash occurred. Candlelight vigils are being planned in Nagpur, London, and several major cities, as both countries grapple with the magnitude of the loss.
The names of the passengers and crew have not yet been officially released, pending notification of next of kin. Families have gathered at both Nagpur and London airports, anxiously awaiting news amid grief and disbelief.
This incident marks one of India’s deadliest air disasters in recent years and raises fresh concerns about aviation safety, especially in densely populated urban corridors.
