Beijing/New Delhi, June 14 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday expressed deep condolences to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the tragic loss of lives in the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed at least 265 lives.
In a message relayed through China’s official Xinhua news agency, Mr. Xi said he was “shocked” to learn of the incident and the scale of the casualties. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, he conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a separate message of condolence to Prime Minister Modi, the agency reported.
Deadliest Air Disaster in Recent Indian History
A London-bound Air India flight carrying 242 passengers and crew members crashed into a medical college complex shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday. The aircraft, identified as AI 117, reportedly encountered a critical technical failure before plummeting into the densely built-up campus and erupting into flames.
Officials confirmed that 241 persons on board and 24 individuals on the ground, mostly students and staff from the college, lost their lives. Rescue operations continued late into the evening, with emergency crews working to recover bodies from the charred wreckage and surrounding structures.
Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the cause of the crash, with a joint investigation team comprising the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India representatives, and Boeing officials expected to arrive in Ahmedabad later today.
Global Condolences Pour In
Leaders from across the world have expressed their sorrow over the incident. Messages have poured in from U.S. President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Mark Carney, and French President Emmanuel Macron, among others.
This marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s history, and has reignited discussions over fleet safety, maintenance protocols, and pilot training in the country’s expanding civil aviation sector.
Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit Ahmedabad over the weekend to take stock of the relief efforts and meet with the families of the victims.
