World Mourns with India After Air India Crash Claims 241 Lives

New Delhi — The catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 on Thursday has sent shockwaves across the globe, drawing messages of sorrow, solidarity, and support from world leaders. The tragic incident, which claimed 241 lives and left only one survivor, has been described as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s history.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members, was en route to London Gatwick from Ahmedabad when it crashed moments after takeoff near Meghaninagar, just outside the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.

The sole survivor, 40-year-old Ramesh Vishwakumar—a British national of Indian origin—recounted the horrifying moment. “Thirty seconds after takeoff, there was a loud noise. There were bodies lying all around me. I was terrified. I got up and ran. There were pieces of the plane scattered everywhere,” he told reporters from his hospital bed.

As India grapples with the magnitude of the loss, messages of condolence have poured in from world leaders and global institutions.

US President Donald Trump, speaking at a White House event, said, “It was a terrible accident. I told them we will be there immediately to do whatever we can.” He offered support to Indian authorities and expressed grief over the “horrific” incident.

King Charles of the United Kingdom released an emotional message: “My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad. 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. We are deeply grateful for the heroic efforts of emergency services and those offering support at this heartbreaking time.”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed his condolences, calling the visuals from the crash site “devastating.” He extended his thoughts to the families of the victims and commended rescue workers for their efforts.

The British High Commission in India confirmed that several British nationals were among the deceased and assured that they are coordinating with Indian authorities to assist affected families.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted on X, saying, “Horrible news. My deepest condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the entire people of India on this tragic day. Our thoughts are with all victims’ relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We share your shock and grief.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed similar sentiments. “We share your pain. Dear Narendra Modi, Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow.”

Leaders from several other countries also conveyed their sympathies:

• Portuguese and Canadian diplomats extended their support, offering help to the families of the victims from their respective nations.
• Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu stated, “The government and people of Maldives stand in solidarity with the people and Government of India during this difficult time.”
• Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim remarked, “We are deeply distressed. On behalf of Malaysia, I extend our heartfelt condolences. We share in India’s sorrow and stand in full solidarity.”
• Former Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ added, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash. Nepal stands in solidarity with India in this moment of grief.”

As rescue and investigation efforts continue, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been tasked with determining the cause of the crash. The world watches with heavy hearts as India navigates one of its darkest moments in civil aviation history.