Following the heartbreaking crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have issued a deeply emotional statement, offering their sympathy to those affected by the disaster.
A Devastating Incident Shortly After Takeoff
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, headed for Gatwick Airport, went down shortly after departing from Ahmedabad, India. Onboard were 242 people, including 53 British citizens. Tragically, the plane crashed into a densely populated neighborhood in the Meghaninagar area, reportedly hitting a residential complex used by medical professionals.
Authorities confirmed that the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control just moments after takeoff, climbing only to an altitude of 625 feet before vanishing from radar. A brief distress signal was the last communication before the fatal crash.
👑 A Message of Grief and Gratitude from the Monarchs
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In a joint message shared across royal social media accounts, the King expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life. Describing the crash as “appallingly tragic,” he conveyed personal shock and sympathy:
“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.”
The monarch also commended the courage and swift response of local emergency services, who faced extremely difficult conditions while conducting rescue operations.
“I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time.”
A Global Tragedy
Passengers onboard represented multiple nationalities: 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven from Portugal, and one Canadian. Local police officials also fear that residents in the crash area may have been among the victims. Gujarat’s regional police chief noted that this day marks a profoundly painful moment for the entire community.
BBC reports from the ground confirmed that at least 204 bodies had been recovered, with 41 others injured. It remains unclear whether all casualties were passengers or included residents near the crash site. Identification efforts are ongoing.
International Support and Reactions
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the tragedy “devastating” and pledged full support from the British government, affirming readiness to assist Indian authorities in any capacity.
Buckingham Palace also confirmed that King Charles is being regularly briefed as new developments emerge.
Public Reaction: A Nation Shares in the Grief
Across social media, members of the public have thanked the King and Queen for their words of compassion. Messages of appreciation continue to pour in:
“Thank you, King Charles and Queen Camilla, for your kind words.”
“Such a touching message—thank you for standing with the victims’ families.”
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the world mourns with India and all nations affected by this international tragedy.