Following the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171, Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg confirmed on Thursday that he had spoken with Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran to extend condolences and pledge Boeing’s full support in the investigation.
In an official statement, Ortberg said, “Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad.” He added, “I have spoken with Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran to offer our full support.”
Ortberg further stated that Boeing is coordinating with India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and is ready to assist in the probe. “A Boeing team stands ready to support the investigation led by India’s AAIB,” he said, while also affirming that the company will adhere strictly to international aviation protocols.
A National Tragedy
The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed moments after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday, reportedly colliding with a nearby medical college complex and erupting into flames. Authorities fear that nearly all 242 people on board may have perished in what is being described as one of the worst aviation disasters in India’s history.
Air India confirmed that there were 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board at the time of the crash. Among the passengers, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 were British citizens, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.
Emergency response teams and investigators from the AAIB are on site, and the process of identifying victims and collecting evidence is underway. Several countries, including the United Kingdom and Portugal, have extended support and expressed condolences over the loss of their citizens.
Investigation Underway
As the crash involved a Boeing aircraft, international aviation experts are expected to join Indian authorities in determining the cause of the crash. Flight data recorders (black boxes) are being recovered and analyzed to provide insight into the moments leading up to the incident.
The tragedy has prompted renewed scrutiny over aircraft safety standards and emergency preparedness at major Indian airports. Meanwhile, Boeing’s involvement in the investigation is seen as a critical component in uncovering the truth and helping bring closure to the affected families.
Sources By Agencies