Air India CEO Campbell Wilson Visits After Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Air India is grappling with a devastating tragedy following the crash of flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, which resulted in the loss of 241 lives. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025. In a remarkable turn of events, one individual, a British national of Indian descent, survived the incident and is currently receiving medical treatment. The airline’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, visited the crash site and expressed deep sorrow over the incident, while the Indian government has initiated an investigation into the crash.
Details of the Crash
The ill-fated flight AI-171 took off from Ahmedabad at 1:39 PM IST and was en route to London Gatwick. Tragically, the aircraft crashed into a residential doctors’ hostel building near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport shortly after departure. Air India confirmed that of the 242 individuals on board, 241 have been confirmed dead, with the sole survivor receiving care in a local hospital. The passenger list included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. The incident has left families and friends of the victims in shock and mourning.
Emergency Response and Investigation
In the wake of the crash, Air India has been cooperating with emergency response teams. CEO Campbell Wilson addressed the situation through a video message, expressing condolences and emphasizing the airline’s commitment to supporting the families of those affected. He stated, “This is a difficult day for all of us here in India,” and assured that a special helpline has been established for concerned relatives. The Indian government, through Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, has confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a formal investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the crash.
Flight Crew and Compensation
The flight crew consisted of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an experienced Line Training Captain with over 8,200 flying hours, and First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 flying hours. The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a compensation package of Rs 1 crore for the families of each victim who lost their lives in the crash. This gesture aims to provide some financial relief to the grieving families during this tragic time.
Community Support and Mourning
The crash has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the victims’ families. Local authorities and organizations are coming together to offer assistance and counseling to those affected. As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the memories of those who lost their lives and supporting the survivor in their recovery. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with air travel and the importance of safety measures in the aviation industry.
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