EAM Jaishankar has spoken with UK, Portugal, and Canadian counterparts following the Ahmedabad Air India crash that claimed 241 lives, including 61 foreign nationals. India offers full support, with rescue and identification efforts ongoing as international investigations begin into one of its deadliest aviation tragedies.
In the wake of the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has expressed India’s deepest condolences and extended full support to affected nations. The crash, which occurred on June 12 shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulted in the deaths of 241 of the 242 people on board.
Among those who perished in the crash were 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian national. The only survivor, a British national of Indian origin, remains in critical medical care.
Dr. Jaishankar took to social media platform X to share updates on India’s diplomatic response. He confirmed that he has been in direct contact with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Portugal’s Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, and Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand.
“In touch with FS @DavidLammy of UK, FM @PauloRangel_pt of Portugal and FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash. Expressed our profound condolences and offered fullest support in this hour of grief,” he wrote in a post on Friday.
He further acknowledged the international condolences received, posting:
“Thank all foreign leaders and Governments for their condolences at the tragic loss of lives in the Ahmedabad air crash. We appreciate this deeply.”
The Tragedy Unfolds
Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operated by Air India, was en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick when it crashed into a densely populated neighborhood near BJ Medical College. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the impact and subsequent fire claimed nearly all lives on board.
Authorities report that recovery efforts continue at the site, with DNA testing underway at BJ Medical College to identify victims whose bodies were too damaged for visual recognition. The process has added to the emotional toll for grieving families, many of whom have traveled from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of India to await news of their loved ones.
International and Government Response
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been working closely with foreign embassies and consulates to support bereaved families. Efforts include coordination for the repatriation of foreign nationals, assistance with documentation, and communication with next-of-kin.
The MEA also assured the public that a comprehensive investigation is already underway. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India, and international aviation authorities are cooperating to determine the cause of the crash.
According to preliminary sources, the black box and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered and are being analyzed. Investigators are focusing on technical malfunctions or procedural lapses that may have led to the disaster, which is now being counted among the deadliest aviation incidents in modern Indian history.
Ongoing Support and Investigation
The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to transparency and international collaboration in the investigation process. Dr. Jaishankar’s swift outreach to foreign ministers is reflective of India’s proactive approach in managing not only the domestic impact of the crash but also its international implications.
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Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly to locate and identify remains. Meanwhile, psychological support and crisis counseling are being offered to the relatives of victims both in India and abroad.
This unprecedented tragedy has prompted national mourning and renewed discussions about aviation safety standards in India. A memorial service for the victims is expected to be organized jointly by the Gujarat state government and the central government in the coming days.
As the investigation unfolds, India’s diplomatic and disaster response machinery remains fully mobilized, ensuring that no affected family is left unheard or unsupported in this devastating moment.
