An Air India aircraft from Dubai to Kozhikode crashed at Calicut International Airport in Kerala after it skidded off the runway while landing.
At least 16 people including the two pilots were killed and more than 123 passengers were seriously injured in the crash. The incident took place around 7.40 pm on Friday.
As per reports, there were around 191 people on the flight including passengers and crew.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in a statement said the plane landed in heavy rain and after landing at Runway 10, it continued running until the end of the runway and fell down in the valley and broke into two.
At least 24 ambulances and fire tenders have been rushed to the airport.
The DGCA has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident.
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan instructed Police and Fire Force to take urgent action in the wake of the plane crash at the Kozhikode International airport (CCJ) in Karipur.
“Have also directed the officials to make necessary arrangements for rescue and medical support,” he said.
Home minister Amit Shah said that he has instructed NDRF to reach the site at the earliest and assist with the rescue operations.
Distressed to learn about the tragic accident of Air India Express aircraft in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Have instructed NDRF to reach the site at the earliest and assist with the rescue operations.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2020
“Distressed to learn about the tragic accident of Air India Express aircraft in Kozhikode, Kerala. Have instructed NDRF to reach the site at the earliest and assist with the rescue operations,” Shah tweeted.
Relatives of passengers onboard Air India Express Flight (IX 1344) that crashed at Karipur International Airport can contact the following helpline Number for inquiries – 0495 – 2376901.
(This is a developing story and will be updated as additional details become available.)