Air India Goes Dark on Social Media Following Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Air India mourns Ahmedabad crash victims, goes dark on social media, changes profile pictures, and sets up emergency helpline for flight AI-171 updates.
image for illustrative purpose
In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India flight AI-171, the airline has gone dark across its social media platforms as a mark of respect and mourning. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport en route to London Gatwick on June 12.
Air India has changed its profile pictures on Twitter (now X), Instagram, and Facebook to a black icon. Additionally, the airline’s official website homepage has been transformed into a somber black-and-white theme with an emergency helpline prominently displayed: 1800 5691 444, dedicated to providing information related to Flight AI-171.
Air India’s Official Statement
On its X account, Air India confirmed the accident and shared details about the flight. The aircraft took off at 1:38 PM IST carrying 242 people, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese passengers. The airline said that the injured were being taken to nearby hospitals and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
“We have set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 for more information,” the airline stated. Regular updates will be posted on their social media handle @airindia and official website airindia.com.
Mayday Call and Crash Details
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reported that Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, piloting Flight AI-171, issued a Mayday distress call shortly after takeoff. Despite repeated attempts, air traffic control lost contact with the aircraft.
The plane crashed near the Meghani Nagar area, just outside the airport perimeter, resulting in massive black smoke and an immediate emergency response. Rescue teams continue to work at the site as investigations proceed.
