UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash of the London-bound Air India flight that claimed 242 lives, including those of several British nationals, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.
Calling the incident “absolutely devastating,” Starmer said, “The images and news from India are truly heartbreaking. I speak for the entire country when I say that our thoughts are with each and every one of those affected. British and Indian families across the UK will be mourning today.”
The Prime Minister confirmed that the UK has deployed an investigative team to assist with the probe into the crash. “An investigation is underway. We’ve dispatched an investigative team, with the Foreign Secretary leading our response. We will provide updates as soon as possible,” he added.
Starmer also noted that the UK is closely coordinating with Indian authorities to determine the facts surrounding the tragedy. “We’re working alongside Indian officials to establish what happened. I urge all families and friends of those potentially affected to contact the Foreign Office for assistance and information.”
In addition to the UK government’s response, the British Royal Family has also extended condolences. In a message released by Buckingham Palace, King Charles III said he and Queen Camilla were “desperately shocked” by the events.
“My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations,” the King said. He also paid tribute to first responders, stating, “I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time.”
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171, was en route to London Gatwick and was carrying 242 people, including 12 crew members, when it crashed shortly after departure. The cause of the crash is under investigation by both Indian and international aviation authorities.
Condolences and messages of support have poured in from across the United Kingdom, reflecting the shared grief felt by both nations in the wake of the tragic incident.