The aviation community and national leaders unite in grief following one of India’s worst air disasters.
India’s leading private airlines-IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air-have extended their deepest condolences and support to Air India following the devastating crash of Flight AI171 near Ahmedabad. The tragedy, which claimed over 260 lives, is among the deadliest aviation accidents in the country’s history.
The ill-fated Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, was en route to London when it crashed into a medical college complex shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Most onboard perished, along with several people on the ground.
In a powerful show of solidarity, the three private carriers expressed their sorrow through posts on social media platform X (formerly Twitter):
- IndiGo wrote: “We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident at Ahmedabad airport. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, and their families. We stand united in spirit with Air India in this very difficult time.”
- SpiceJet posted: “We are truly saddened by the tragic incident… Our prayers are with the passengers, crew, and their loved ones.”
- Akasa Air shared a similar message, also removing its profile and header images across platforms as a mark of mourning-echoing a gesture made earlier by Air India.
National and Corporate Response
The Tata Group, which owns Air India, expressed “profound sorrow” and assured full support to the families of victims. Gautam Adani, whose group operates Ahmedabad airport, confirmed ongoing collaboration with rescue and relief operations.
Political leaders and public figures also joined the nation in mourning:
- President Droupadi Murmu called it a “heart-rending disaster.”
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed Home Minister Amit Shah and Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu to visit the site.
- Bollywood actor Salman Khan cancelled a public appearance, stating, “We are with the country.”
Market Impact & Investigation
The crash had immediate repercussions in financial markets.
- IndiGo shares fell by approximately 3%
- SpiceJet dropped by 1.5%
- Boeing, the aircraft’s manufacturer, saw a 7–9% dip in pre-market U.S. trading.
Both the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)have launched a full probe. Investigators are currently examining black box data, pilot communication logs, and weather conditions at the time of the incident. No preliminary findings have been released yet.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran confirmed that the airline has activated its emergency response centre and dispatched family support teams to assist survivors and the next of kin.
