Maldives President Muizzu Expresses Condolences for Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed profound condolences following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI 171 near Ahmedabad, India, on Thursday, June 12, 2025. In a statement posted on X, the President conveyed the solidarity of the Maldivian government and its people with the government and people of India during this devastating moment.

The Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed approximately five minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM Indian Standard Time. The flight, bound for Birmingham, United Kingdom, crashed into buildings near the airport in the Meghaninagar area, causing significant damage and loss of life. The passenger manifest included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian citizen.

The aircraft was commanded by Captain Sumit Sabarwal, who had 8,200 hours of flying experience, and First Officer Clive Kundar, with 1,100 hours of flying experience. Following the incident, all flight operations at Ahmedabad’s Patel International Airport were suspended to facilitate rescue and recovery efforts.

President Muizzu’s message of condolence underscores the deep ties between the Maldives and India, reflecting a shared sense of grief over the tragedy. Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency services working to assist those affected and determine the cause of the crash.