Ahmedabad plane crash: 204 bodies recovered, DNA sampling underway

AHMEDABAD: In the aftermath of the devastating Air India plane crash, authorities have recovered 204 bodies from the wreckage. Efforts to identify the deceased are underway, with DNA samples being collected from the victims' next of kin to facilitate the handover of remains. The blood sample collection process has begun at B.J. Medical College, and the DNA matching will be conducted at the Gandhinagar Forensic Laboratory. The bodies will be handed over to the respective families only after the DNA results are confirmed.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that one person miraculously survived the crash. The survivor has been identified as Ramesh Vishwaskumar, who reportedly escaped through the emergency exit just before the crash.

The tragic incident occurred today around 1:30 PM, shortly after the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Moments after takeoff, the aircraft crashed into the hostel building of B.J. Medical College, engulfing the area in flames.

The aircraft was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers, 10 cabin crew members, and 2 pilots. Among them were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the crash may have been caused by bird strikes to both engines, according to a statement from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the incident is considered one of the most modern and advanced aircraft currently in operation.