London/New Delhi, June 12 – World leaders have expressed deep sorrow and solidarity after Air India Flight AI171, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The tragedy, which occurred in the Meghaninagar area, involved 242 passengers, including 53 British nationals, and triggered a massive emergency response.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the crash “devastating,” noting the presence of many British citizens on board. “The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane crashing in Ahmedabad are heartbreaking. I’m being kept updated, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families during this distressing time,” Starmer posted on X.
British Defence Secretary David Lammy also extended condolences, saying, “The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support.”
Conservative MP Priti Patel urged the UK government to coordinate with Indian authorities. “This will be a worrying time for the families of those on board. The government must ensure it is supporting affected British families,” she stated.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered heartfelt condolences to the people of India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families. We pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” he said.
Russia’s Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, described the incident as a “major catastrophe,” extending sympathy to the victims’ families and the Government of India.
The crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner has prompted a high-level investigation, with rescue operations underway. Air India and Indian authorities are working closely with foreign missions to provide assistance and updates to the families of those on board.
