‘A Tragic Day for All of Us’: Air India CEO Responds to Ahmedabad Crash.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has called the crash of Flight AI171 “a tragic day for all of us,” as the airline and the country mourn the deadliest aviation disaster India has faced in over a decade.
In a video message shared on social media, Wilson expressed heartfelt condolences and pledged the airline’s full support to those impacted. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected. This is a devastating moment for the entire Air India family,” he said. “Our immediate priority is to care for the passengers, crew, and their families. We are working closely with local authorities and emergency teams.”
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London, crashed minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, killing at least 204 people and injuring 41. The plane, carrying 242 people—including 232 passengers and 10 crew members—went down in the Meghaninagar area, crashing into a government hospital hostel and triggering a massive blaze.
Among the victims were three medical students residing in the hostel. Several others remain in critical condition. Emergency personnel worked through the day, clearing debris and rushing the injured to nearby hospitals. Green corridors were set up across the city to speed up medical response.
The aircraft was operated by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar—veteran pilots with over 9,000 combined flying hours. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that a “MAYDAY” distress signal was sent shortly after takeoff at 1:39 PM. Contact was lost soon after.
Air India has dispatched a special caregiver team to Ahmedabad and activated a dedicated helpline (1800-56-91-444) for families seeking updates. The airline is also working with the Ministry of External Affairs and international missions to assist the families of the 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, 7 Portuguese citizens, and 169 Indian nationals on board.
Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran called the tragedy “unbearable” and extended his condolences, affirming the company’s full support to all those affected.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched an inquiry into the cause of the crash. Wilson said the airline is cooperating fully. “While investigations will take time, our commitment to care and transparency is immediate,” he added. “We are doing everything we can to support the victims, their families, and our community during this heartbreaking time.”
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