The tragic crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad on Thursday has prompted an outpouring of condolences from around the world, including official reactions from the High Commission of Canada in India. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating as AI171, went down minutes after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, crashing into a residential area in Meghaninagar.
Canada PM Mark Carney also reacted to the incident, saying that he was "devastated" to learn of the crash of a London-bound Air India plane in Ahmedabad, carrying 242 passengers — including one Canadian. "My thoughts are with the loved ones of everyone on board. Canada’s transportation officials are in close contact with counterparts and I am receiving regular updates as the response to this tragedy unfolds," he wrote on X.
Canada High Commission reacts to Ahmedabad plane crash
Among the 232 passengers and 10 crew members onboard were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, and one Canadian. In response to the tragedy, the High Commission of Canada posted on X, “The High Commission of Canada expresses our deepest condolences following the tragic plane crash in #Ahmedabad. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.”
UK Prime Minister calls the crash "devastating"
This statement came as world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, also voiced their grief and pledged support for those impacted by the disaster.
United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer also reacted to the news with a message of support and concern. In a post on X, he described the incident as "devastating" and confirmed he was being updated on the situation.
"The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time."
The Prime Minister’s statement was echoed by other senior British leaders.
David Lammy, the UK’s Shadow Foreign Secretary and MP for Tottenham, conveyed his grief over the tragedy and assured that efforts were underway to gather accurate information and provide necessary aid.
"Deeply saddened by news of a devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. My thoughts are with all those affected. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support."
Also read: Gujarat Plane Crash: Chilling Video Shows Moment When Air India Aircraft Crashed
PM Narendra Modi's statement on Ahmedabad plane crash
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to share his anguish, calling the incident "heartbreaking beyond words." He added that he was in constant contact with relevant authorities and ministers working on rescue and relief operations.
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is reportedly en route to Ahmedabad and has spoken with state officials, including Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, to coordinate ongoing efforts.
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