Air India CEO Grieves Crash: We Stand With Families

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Photo: Reuters

A big tragedy took place in Ahmedabad on Thursday when Air India’s flight to London crashed just after takeoff. The plane was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Out of the 242 people on board, 241 people sadly died. Only one person survived—his name is Vishwashkumar Ramesh. He is a British citizen with Indian roots and is now getting treatment for his injuries.

This terrible accident has left the whole country in shock and deep sadness.

Air India CEO’s Emotional Message

Air India’s CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, shared a heartfelt video message on social media. He said the entire Air India team is heartbroken by this tragedy. “We are truly devastated by this loss. We stand with the families and loved ones of everyone affected,” he said.

Wilson also visited the crash site and said the scenes he saw were very painful. A team of almost 100 Air India staff—including 40 engineers and many caregivers—has reached Ahmedabad to help. These teams are supporting the families and helping with the technical work at the crash site.

Help Centres for Families

Air India has set up help centres at airports in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and London Gatwick. These centres are assisting families of the victims, helping them travel to Ahmedabad and giving them emotional and practical support.

Support from Tata Group

The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced that it will give ₹1 crore (around £85,000) to each family that lost a loved one. They also said they will pay for the medical treatment of anyone who was injured.

Tata Group Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran wrote a letter to his employees. He called June 12 “one of the darkest days in Tata Group’s history” and said, “We are here for the families. Words are not enough, but we will stand by them.”

Prime Minister Modi’s Condolences

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his sorrow on social media. He said the sudden loss of so many lives is beyond words. “We understand the pain of the families. May those who passed away rest in peace. Om Shanti,” he wrote.

He also visited the crash site and spoke to the rescue teams working there. He said their work in such hard times was deeply appreciated.

Who Were on the Plane?

According to airline authorities, the people on board included:

• 169 Indian nationals

• 53 British nationals

• 7 Portuguese nationals

• 1 Canadian national

Sadly, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also one of the passengers who died.

What Happened During Takeoff?

The plane took off from Runway 23 in Ahmedabad at 1:39 PM IST. Just moments later, it sent a "mayday" emergency call. But after that, it stopped responding to the Air Traffic Control. The aircraft crashed just outside the airport area. Thick black smoke was seen rising from the crash site.

Boeing Responds

Boeing, the company that built the aircraft, said they are in touch with Air India and are ready to help. “Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders, and everyone affected,” the company said.

Investigations and Next Steps

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson also met with government officials and promised full cooperation. “We know investigations will take time, but we will be fully transparent and support the process as long as needed,” he said.

He also said Air India is especially concerned about the medical students from a hostel who were involved in the accident.

This plane crash is one of the worst tragedies in recent aviation history in India. Air India, the Tata Group, and the Indian government are working together to support all those who are grieving.