Winning Bizness Economic Desk

Mumbai. The crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad has led to a sharp decline in the company’s share value. In early pre-market trading on Thursday, Boeing’s stock plunged 7.8%, falling to $197.3 from its previous closing price of $214. As the U.S. markets opened, the fall stabilized at around 5%. This marks the third consecutive day of decline for Boeing shares, reflecting investor concerns following the crash.

Company Begins Probe, Awaits More Details

In a brief statement, Boeing acknowledged being aware of the early reports regarding the crash. The company stated it is actively gathering more information about the incident to assess the cause and any potential implications. The aircraft involved had been manufactured at Boeing’s South Carolina facility and was inducted into Air India’s fleet in 2012.

Aircraft Was Serving Long-Haul International Routes

The Dreamliner model is commonly used on long-haul routes such as Delhi–New York and Mumbai–London. The ill-fated flight took off with 242 passengers on board, including 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and one Canadian national. Just two minutes after take-off, the plane crashed into the premises of BJ Medical College and Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, triggering a massive explosion and fire.

Casualties Reported, Identification Underway

Rescue teams have so far recovered over 100 bodies from the crash site. Many of the victims have suffered severe burns, making identification difficult. Authorities have said that DNA testing will be necessary for proper identification. The aircraft also struck a residential complex housing doctors from Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, resulting in injuries to at least 15 medical professionals.

Crash Location and Timeline of Incident

Air India flight AI-171 departed at 1:38 PM and crashed just two minutes later at 1:40 PM. According to preliminary reports, the aircraft collided with a structure near the airport’s boundary wall and the Air Customs Cargo Office. A massive plume of smoke was seen rising from the crash site moments after the impact. The area was immediately cordoned off as emergency services rushed to control the fire and assist survivors.

Past Tragedy: Kozhikode Crash in 2020

This is not the first major crash involving an Air India aircraft. On August 7, 2020, an Air India Express flight overshot the runway during landing in Kozhikode, Kerala, killing 21 people and injuring 110 others. That flight was part of the Vande Bharat Mission, repatriating Indian nationals stranded abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summary Points:

1. Boeing shares fell 5% after a 787 Dreamliner crashed in Ahmedabad.

2. The aircraft was part of Air India's fleet, bought in 2012.

3. The plane carried 242 passengers; over 100 bodies recovered.

4. Many victims are severely burned, DNA tests needed for identification.

5. The crash occurred two minutes after take-off, near the airport.

6. Doctors housed near the crash site were among the injured.

7. Boeing has begun an internal investigation into the incident