Tragedy Strikes: Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner Crashes After Takeoff, 254 Feared Dead

In what is being described as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent Indian history, an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 passengers, 10 crew members, and 2 pilots crashed shortly after takeoff, erupting into a massive fireball that lit up the early morning sky.

The flight, AI-229, was en route from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to London Heathrow when it lost altitude moments after takeoff and plunged into an open field just 5 kilometers from the runway.

Witnesses Describe Horror

Local residents near the crash site reported hearing a thunderous explosion followed by a massive fireball and thick black smoke rising into the sky.

“It was like an earthquake,” said one witness. “We saw flames shooting up and heard people screaming. It was terrifying.”

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but initial reports suggest there are no survivors.

✈️ What We Know So Far

• The flight took off at 6:13 AM local time and crashed at 6:17 AM.
• Eyewitnesses and early radar data suggest the aircraft struggled to gain altitude and banked sharply before impact.
• The aircraft was a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, known for fuel efficiency and long-haul capabilities.
• An investigation has been launched by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), with Boeing and international aviation authorities expected to assist.

️ A Nation in Mourning

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences via social media, stating:

“Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in today’s Air India crash. My prayers are with the families of the victims. The nation stands with you in this hour of grief.”

Air India has issued a brief statement confirming the crash and expressing “profound sorrow” over the loss of passengers and crew.

Grief counselors and crisis response teams have been deployed at major airports and to the homes of affected families.

❓ The Road Ahead

Though it’s too early to determine the cause, experts say key focus areas will include:

• Engine malfunction or bird strike shortly after takeoff
• Possible pilot distress or instrument failure
• Black box (flight recorder) recovery, which is underway

Investigators are also analyzing air traffic control audio and maintenance logs of the aircraft, which had reportedly undergone routine checks just days earlier.

Final Thoughts

As the nation grapples with the magnitude of this tragedy, the loss of 254 lives will be felt deeply across India and beyond. Many passengers were reportedly traveling for business, studies, and family reunions abroad.

This disaster is a painful reminder of the fragility of life — and of the heavy responsibility carried by those who design, operate, and regulate the skies we trust.