Air India chairman N. Chandrasekaran—who also chairs the boards of Tata Sons and Tata Group—stressed that the group’s “primary focus” was “on supporting all the affected people and their families”, following the crash of the Air India Flight 171 Ahmedabad London Gatwick flight on June 12.
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In a statement posted on social media platforms through the Tata Group account, N. Chandrasekharan stated, “At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting all the affected people and their families. We are doing everything in our power to assist the emergency response teams at the site and to provide all necessary support and care to those impacted.”
“Further updates will be shared as we receive more verified information. An emergency centre has been activated and support team have been set up for families seeking information,” added the Air India chairman.
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At 3.26pm IST, Air India confirmed through X, formerly Twitter, that the Boeing Dreamliner aircraft was involved in an accident today after take-off.
“The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals,” stated Air India.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, operated by Adani Airports, temporarily suspended operations following the crash, mere kilometres from the runway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to post: “The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words.”
“In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected,” added Modi.
