Pilot Sumit Sabharwal Issued Mayday Minutes After Takeoff From Ahmedabad Airport | Flight N18V

Published: June 16, 2025

Critical Moment: Mayday Call From Flight N18V Just Minutes After Takeoff

Ahmedabad Airport witnessed a distressing event on June 12, 2025, when Captain Sumit Sabharwal, pilot of Air India Flight N18V, issued an urgent mayday call shortly after takeoff. The flight was en route to London Gatwick Airport when the emergency unfolded.

What Happened: Timeline of Events

5:10 PM: Flight N18V departs Ahmedabad Airport with 242 people onboard.
Minutes after takeoff: Captain Sabharwal radios an urgent mayday call reporting technical difficulties.
Emergency protocols initiated: Air Traffic Control and emergency responders mobilize immediately.
Flight loses contact: The aircraft tragically crashes near the airport perimeter.

Eyewitness Account: A Harrowing Moment at Ahmedabad Airport

We spoke with Rajesh Patel, an airport ground crew member who witnessed the moments after the mayday call was made.

“I heard the pilot’s urgent call over the radio. There was a sense of calm but also urgency in his voice. Right after that, I saw the plane struggling to maintain altitude. It was heartbreaking because we all knew something was wrong,” Rajesh recounted.

He described the immediate response of emergency teams:

“Within minutes, fire and rescue units rushed to the crash site. The airport staff worked together quickly to provide aid, but the situation was very difficult. We did everything we could.”

A Passenger’s Perspective

We also talked to Anita Desai, a nearby traveler who was waiting at the airport lounge.

“Suddenly, there was a loud noise and people started running. Then we heard the mayday announcement on the speakers. It was terrifying, and everyone prayed for the people on board.”

Impact on the Community

These firsthand accounts shed light on the chaos and urgency during those critical minutes. For the families and community members, the tragedy is deeply felt, and the stories of heroism and solidarity bring some comfort amid the sorrow.

Captain Sabharwal’s Mayday Call

According to air traffic recordings obtained by investigators, Captain Sabharwal calmly reported a sudden loss of engine power and requested immediate assistance.

“Mayday, mayday, mayday, this is Air India Flight N18V. We are experiencing engine failure. Request immediate clearance for emergency landing,” the pilot reported, his voice steady despite the dire situation.

Response and Rescue Efforts

Emergency teams at Ahmedabad Airport responded promptly, rushing to the crash site. Despite their swift action, the accident resulted in 241 fatalities. Authorities have praised the professionalism of Captain Sabharwal and the crew for their efforts to manage the emergency.

Investigation Underway

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a full investigation into the incident. Early findings suggest a possible mechanical failure, but the cause is not yet confirmed.

Related Articles:

Air India Flight N18V Crash: Full Timeline and Updates »
Inside the Cockpit: Pilots Share Experiences in Crisis »
How Mayday Calls Save Lives: Aviation Safety Explained »

Closing Remarks

Captain Sumit Sabharwal’s quick thinking and professional handling of the emergency is being remembered as a critical moment in the tragic chain of events. The aviation community and the nation await the investigation’s findings to better understand what led to this disaster.

📍 Ahmedabad, India | 🕒 June 16, 2025