Islamabad (Web Desk/Agencies): Pakistan and global leaders have expressed profound grief and sorrow following the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad, India, which claimed the lives of all 242 passengers and crew on board.
The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner went down minutes after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, crashing into a residential area and striking a medical college hostel during lunch hour. The flight was en route to Gatwick Airport near London. There have been no reports of survivors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered his heartfelt condolences, stating: “Saddened by the tragic crash of Air India flight near Ahmedabad today.” He added, “We extend our condolences to the families of the victims grieving this immense loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar also mourned the loss, writing on his official X account: “Saddened at the crash of Air India flight in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Condolences over the loss of precious lives in this tragic incident.” He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families during this time of sorrow.
Federal Minister for Defence Khwaja Asif expressed his sorrow via social media, saying: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic crash of #AirIndia Flight AI171 near Ahmedabad today.” He continued: “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of all aboard. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also conveyed his condolences, stating: "Saddened to hear a tragic incident occurred earlier today." He added, “Where an Air India flight with approximately 240 passengers crashed shortly after takeoff near Ahmedabad, India. I express my profound condolences to the people of India.”
Former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif shared a message of unity in mourning, declaring: “My heartfelt condolences to the families of the precious lives lost in the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.”
He added: “This devastating loss transcends borders and reminds us of our shared humanity. My deepest sympathies to Prime Minister Modi and the people of India.”
A statement from the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson also conveyed support, reading: “Our hearts go out to the families & loved ones affected by today's tragic crash. At #PIA, we stand in solidarity with our fellow aviation community, offering our deepest condolences to Flight 171 and all those impacted.”
World leaders' reaction
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X: "The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words." He assured the public, "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."
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reflected on the incident, noting: "The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating." He added: "I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time."
Britain’s King Charles expressed his shock and sympathy, writing on X: "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, as they await news of their loved ones."
Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus extended his nation’s support, stating: "We extend our deepest condolences to all the families who lost their dear ones at this tragic incident." He affirmed: "We stand in solidarity with the people and Government of India, and offer our full support in any form."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also issued a message of condolence, saying: "My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss." Addressing India’s leadership, she added: "Dear @narendramodi, Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow."
Russian President Vladimir Putin shared his reaction, stating: "Please accept my deep condolences on the tragic consequences of the airliner crash at Ahmedabad airport." He further conveyed: "Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, as well as wishes of a swift recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe."
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his nation’s grief, saying: "We have learned with deep emotion of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. In this time of sorrow, I extend our heartfelt thoughts to the victims' loved ones and to Prime Minister @NarendraModi."