Stewart Wingate, Chief Executive of London Gatwick Airport, expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad.
In a statement shared by London Gatwick on X, Wingate said the airport is in close contact with Air India and is providing assistance.
“We are very saddened to hear about the accident involving Air India flight AI171, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of those on board. We can confirm flight AI171 that was involved in an accident shortly after departure from Ahmedabad Airport on 12 June was due to land at London Gatwick. London Gatwick is liaising closely with Air India and a reception centre for relatives of those on board is available with information and support,” the statement read.
According to the statement, “The Boeing 787-8 aircraft had 242 passengers and crew members on board. British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call 020 7008 5000. Air India has set up a dedicated passenger hotline number +91806 2779 200 to provide more information. Further updates will be issued in due course.“
The tragic crash occurred shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, as the aircraft, heading for London Gatwick, crashed in the Meghaninagar area. A total of 241 people were killed, including 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese nationals, Air India confirmed.
Meanwhile, the British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday to offer condolences. She noted that the UK and India are closely cooperating to gather more details and provide support to the families of affected British nationals.
In a post on X, Cameron stated, “I met with Prime Minister @narendramodi this morning. We shared condolences in the face of this tragic accident, and I offered my thanks for the work of tireless first responders here in Ahmedabad. The UK and India are working together to establish the facts. We stand ready to support the families and friends of affected British Nationals – please consult our Travel Advice for updates and contact us on the 24/7 consular helpline.“
Authorities from both countries are expected to release further information as investigations into the crash continue.