London: The tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad has triggered an international wave of grief and solidarity, with leaders from the United Kingdom, Ukraine, and Canada extending their condolences to the families of the victims. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, was carrying 242 passengers and crew when it crashed in the Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad, killing over 100 people.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reacted with deep sorrow, stating, “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.” Among the passengers were 53 British nationals, 169 Indian nationals, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian national. The British High Commission in New Delhi also responded to the tragedy, saying, “We are aware that a flight from Ahmedabad to London has crashed near Ahmedabad airport. We are working with local authorities to urgently establish the facts and provide support. Our thoughts are with all those affected.”
Ukraine’s Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelenskyy offered heartfelt condolences to India, writing, “Horrible news of a passenger plane crash in India. My deepest condolences to Prime Minister @narendramodi and the entire people of India on this tragic day.” He added, “Our thoughts are with all victims’ relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We share your shock and grief on this tragic day. We all pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Canada also joined in mourning the loss. The High Commission of Canada in India said in a statement, “The High Commission of Canada expresses our deepest condolences following the tragic plane crash in #Ahmedabad. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.”
The crash, which occurred less than a minute after takeoff, has sparked a massive emergency response. The Indian government, along with aviation authorities, has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
