US aircraft manufacturer Boeing on Thursday said it is in contact with Air India after one of the airline’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport en route to London Gatwick. “We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them,” Boeing said in a statement.

The pilot of the Dreamliner had issued a Mayday distress call — signalling a full emergency — within moments of takeoff, according to the Air Traffic Control in Ahmedabad. “Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders, and all those affected,” the company said.

In a brief follow-up statement, Boeing added: “We are aware of initial reports and are working to gather more information.” Aviation expert John M. Cox, CEO of Safety Operating Systems, told the Associated Press from Los Angeles that based on early visuals, it appeared the aircraft had its nose up but wasn’t climbing, which could be a crucial element in the investigation.