Ahmedabad Plane Crash: First Thing You Should Do If You See Or Hear A Plane Crash? Check Helpline Numbers

Add as a preferred source on Google

On Thursday afternoon, 12 June chaos struck near Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner bound for London's Gatwick Airport, crashed during its ascent, piercing through a residential area known as Meghani Nagar.

Flight AI 171 took off at approximately 1:38 PM local time. Less than a minute later, at just 625 feet altitude, the aircraft lost contact and made a distress call ("Mayday") to air traffic control. Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane descend erratically before crashing into a doctor's hostel in Meghani Nagar, triggering explosions and sending plumes of dark smoke billowing into the sky.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

On board were 242 individuals: 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. Notably, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also travelling on the flight.

Emergency teams-including NDRF, fire brigades, and ambulances-were quickly dispatched and have reported several fatalities and numerous injuries. Many victims were transported to nearby hospitals.

Helpline Numbers

A dedicated passenger helpline has been set up at 1800 5691 444 for families seeking updates and assistance. An additional emergency helpline has been activated at Ahmedabad airport: 9974111327.

To streamline coordination efforts, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has launched an Operational Control Room. For inquiries and support, families and authorities can contact the MoCA at 011-24610843 or 9650391859, as announced via an official post on X.

Meanwhile, the UK government has also established a support line for British nationals potentially affected by the crash. Those needing consular assistance or worried about loved ones are advised to call 020 7008 5000, as reported by ANI.

Whether you're a bystander hearing a crash or someone who sees it unfold in real time, your response can be critical. Many lives may depend on how quickly and calmly you act. In a world where disasters can unfold anywhere and anytime, knowing what to do in the first few minutes could save lives-yours included.

1. Stay Calm And Assess The Situation

Panic is a natural reaction to something as shocking as a plane crash. The sound alone can be disorienting. But the first thing to remember is to stay as calm as possible. If you're nearby, pause and try to understand what exactly has happened. Has the aircraft crashed into a building? An open field? Is there fire, smoke, or visible wreckage? This will determine your next move. Avoid rushing toward the site without knowing the extent of danger-it could put you at risk.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

2. Call Emergency Services Immediately

Once you've taken stock of the situation, contact emergency services right away. In India, dial 112 (the all-in-one emergency number) or 101 for the fire brigade. If local helpline numbers have been issued-as they were during the Ahmedabad crash-share them with others around you. Time is of the essence, and the sooner trained responders get there, the better the chances of saving lives. Even if you're not sure whether someone else has already called, don't assume-make the call.

3. Don't Crowd The Site-You May Hinder Rescue Operations

One of the biggest mistakes onlookers make is crowding the crash site. In high-stress moments like these, many people rush to take photos or live-stream the event. This not only shows a lack of sensitivity but also blocks ambulances, fire trucks, and officials from reaching the area. If you're not trained in emergency rescue or first aid, it's best to stay at a safe distance and keep the route clear. You can still be of help by directing emergency responders or calming others around you.

4. Help Only If It's Safe To Do So

If you're close enough to help and it's safe, you can attempt to assist survivors until professionals arrive. But caution is key. If the crash has caused a fire, leaking fuel, or collapsing structures, it's better not to go too close. Smoke inhalation, explosions, or structural collapse are real threats in these situations. If you must help, prioritize moving people only if they are in immediate danger (for example, if fire is spreading). Otherwise, try to talk to them, keep them conscious and reassure them that help is on the way.

5. Avoid Spreading Panic Through Misinformation

In the age of social media, the temptation to post breaking updates is strong. But posting unverified information, especially in chaotic moments, can create widespread panic. Avoid sharing graphic images or speculative details. If you want to help, share only helpline numbers, traffic diversion alerts, or appeals for blood donation-things that are verified and useful.

6.Cooperate With Authorities And Follow Instructions

If officials arrive and ask you to move, assist, or share what you saw, cooperate fully. Witness accounts can be crucial in piecing together what went wrong. But once you've done your part, step away and let them do theirs. Do not interfere with evidence, touch debris, or try to capture close-up photos of the crash.

7. Watch For Your Own Mental Health After Witnessing Trauma

Being near a plane crash-even if you weren't injured-can be emotionally devastating. It's okay to feel shaken, anxious, or even guilty afterward. If those feelings persist, seek support from a counselor, talk to a friend, or contact mental health helplines. Suppressing trauma can have long-term effects, especially if you witnessed injuries or death.

8. Stay Updated And Share Official Information Only

After a crash, authorities will release updates about survivors, casualties, investigations, and helpline numbers. Make sure you're tuned in to credible news sources, not WhatsApp forwards or social media rumours. If you can, amplify verified updates to help others stay informed. If any local helpline numbers are announced, keep them handy and circulate through trusted platforms.

Aviation accidents are rare, but when they happen, public response can deeply impact the outcome. Whether it's saving someone, preventing chaos, or simply staying out of the way-your role matters. You don't have to be a hero, but being informed, alert, and compassionate can make all the difference when disaster strikes.