The flight, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick airport, crashed shortly after takeoff. According to the local newspaper, the Indian Express, citing police, the passengers included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian national.
All the 242 people on board the ill-fated Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner (VT-ANB), operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick airport that crashed earlier on Thursday, are feared dead.
The flight, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick airport, crashed shortly after takeoff. According to the local newspaper, the Indian Express, citing police, the passengers included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian national.
“The police confirmed that all 242 passengers on board the aircraft had died in the crash,” the outlet reported.
The cause of the crash is yet to be determined, and an investigation has been launched into the incident.
Meanwhile, world leaders have been quick to respond to the tragedy, sending their condolences through social media platforms.
French President Emmanuel Macron said, “We have learned with deep emotion of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. In this time of sorrow, I extend our heartfelt thoughts to the victims’ loved ones and to Prime Minister @NarendraModi.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her deepest condolences, saying, “Deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad. On behalf of the Italian Government and myself, I express my sincerest condolences to the families of the victims and our full solidarity with the Indian people in this time of great sorrow.”
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said, “I am saddened by the news of the Air India plane crash. It is a great tragedy that has affected many lives. My heartfelt condolences go out to all those who have lost their loved ones.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky added, “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.”
Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed his deepest sympathies, saying, “Deeply saddened by the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad earlier today. The loss of so many lives is heartbreaking. We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the people of India in this time of sorrow.”
Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro posted on X, “It was with deep dismay that I learned of the tragic plane crash in India, involving 7 citizens with Portuguese nationality. On behalf of myself and the government, I would like to express my condolences and deep solidarity with the families of the victims.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “The news of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad is absolutely devastating. In this time of tragedy, Australia’s thoughts are with everyone affected.”
The tragedy has sent shockwaves around the world, with people from different countries and backgrounds coming together to mourn the loss of lives.