The moments before and after devastating Air India plane crash

A London-bound Air India flight with 242 passengers on board has crashed near an airport in India's northwestern city of Ahmedabad.

Pictures from the scene showed thick black smoke rising up into the sky after the plane crashed, with part of the aircraft pictured resting on top of a building.

The plane was headed for London Gatwick Airport and was carrying 242 passengers and crew. It was earlier reported that 244 people were on the flight.