Air India crash: UK High Commission in India confirms cooperation with local authorities

The UK, Canada, and Portugal have expressed condolences and are coordinating support. Several casualties are feared. Investigations and relief efforts are ongoing

New Delhi: The British High Commission in India on Thursday said it is working with local authorities to urgently establish facts and provide support following the crash of a London-bound Air India flight that took off from Ahmedabad.

According to Air India, the Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating on the Ahmedabad to London Gatwick route was carrying 242 passengers and crew members. Among them were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national. Several casualties are feared.

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“We are aware that a flight from Ahmedabad to London has crashed near Ahmedabad airport. We are working with local authorities to urgently establish the facts and provide support. Our thoughts are with all those affected,” the British High Commission said in a brief statement posted on its official X handle. It also shared a link to its travel advisory.

The Canadian High Commission in New Delhi also expressed its deepest condolences following the tragic crash. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims,” it posted on X.

The Indian Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal, said it was shocked and deeply saddened to learn about the accident involving Air India flight AI171 bound for the UK from India.

“As per available information, seven Portuguese nationals were on board. Our thoughts are with all those affected,” the embassy wrote on X. It also stated that the Embassy of India would render all required assistance to the affected families.

“For any urgent support, please contact us on our emergency number: +351 911 991 939. Official updates may be followed from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Air India. Air India helpline: 1800 5691 444,” the statement added.