An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London's Gatwick Airport crashed shortly after takeoff this afternoon. The aircraft was carrying 232 passengers and 10 crew members. The aircraft could only gain a maximum speed of 174 knots (322 km/hr) during its flight.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as "heartbreaking beyond words".

"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," the Prime Minister said in a statement.

The crash occurred between 1 pm and 2 pm local time, with the aircraft reportedly losing altitude soon after takeoff. One passenger on seat 11A of the aircraft miraculously survived the crash, while 241 died, Air India said in a statement. The survivor was seen walking from the crash site.

"Thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed," the survivor said. He suffered injuries to his chest and face.

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