Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner Used for Long-Haul Flight: Took Off for a 7,000-Kilometer Journey
An Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London crashed during takeoff at Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport in Ahmedabad’s Meghani Nagar. The plane took off at 1:38 PM and the accident occurred at 1:40 PM. The incident took place near Ghoda Camp in the IGB compound of Meghani Nagar. Thick clouds of smoke were visible from a distance, causing panic among nearby residents. The crash occurred when the rear part of the plane collided with a tree during takeoff. It is also suggested that a technical fault in the plane may have contributed to the accident.
The plane was carrying 169 Indian passengers, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens. In total, there were 217 adult passengers, 11 children, and 2 infants on board.
Flight Details and Aircraft Suitability
The Ahmedabad to London flight covers a distance of approximately 7,000 kilometers, which is well-suited for the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. This aircraft is known for its comfort and efficiency. Airlines such as Air India, British Airways, and Etihad frequently use the 787-8 for this route.
Boeing Aircraft Lifespan
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is designed for a lifespan of 44,000 flight cycles, with a potential operational life of 30 to 50 years. However, most commercial jets do not remain in service for their full lifespan. The crashed aircraft was only 11 years old. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a wide-body, mid-size, long-range aircraft capable of seating 210-250 passengers and covering up to 8,500 nautical miles. It is designed to consume 20% less fuel than comparable aircraft.
Specifications of the Boeing 787-8
- Length: 56.70 meters
- Wingspan: 60 meters
- Height: 16.90 meters
- Engines: Two, typically General Electric or Rolls-Royce
- Fuel Capacity: 126,206 liters
- Maximum Speed: 954 km/h
- Maximum Range: 13,620 km
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 254 passengers
- Estimated Cost: ₹21.8 billion (₹2,180 crore)
The aircraft is manufactured by the American company Boeing. It is equipped with advanced security screening systems, including strict passenger and luggage screening at airports, involving baggage checks, body scans, and ID verification. The 787-8 features a cockpit access control system to prevent unauthorized entry and advanced cybersecurity systems to protect against hacking. Airlines and government agencies share real-time intelligence to address potential risks.
