Royal Condolences and Global Reaction

King Charles expressed his grief in a statement issued by the Royal Family, calling the crash “appallingly tragic.” He and Queen Camilla extended their deepest sympathies to all those affected and praised the emergency services for their swift response.

Air India Responds with Support and Coordination

Air India confirmed the crash on its social media channels and is fully cooperating with investigators. The airline activated emergency helplines for domestic and international families and urged the media not to contact them directly.

CEO Campbell Wilson addressed the tragedy in a video statement, calling it a “difficult day” for the airline. He assured the public that Air India’s focus remains on supporting passengers, crew, and their families. Wilson also announced the deployment of a caregiver team to Ahmedabad and emphasized their collaboration with local authorities on recovery efforts.

Rescue Efforts and Investigations Underway

Security personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force were among the first to respond, initiating emergency protocols at the scene. Ongoing rescue operations are being conducted in coordination with local agencies and are focused on identifying victims and aiding survivors.

Boeing issued a statement acknowledging the incident and offering condolences. The aircraft manufacturer confirmed it is working with Air India and relevant authorities as the investigation proceeds.

While the cause of the crash has yet to be determined, early speculation from aviation experts suggests a possible malfunction involving the plane’s wing flaps.

India’s Worst Air Disaster in Recent Years

This tragedy marks the deadliest air disaster in India in recent memory. The country’s last fatal aviation incident occurred in August 2020, when an Air India Express flight overshot the runway in Kozhikode, killing 21 people.

As investigations continue, recovery operations remain in full force, and the nation mourns the lives lost in this devastating event.