King Charles, Queen Camilla ‘shocked’ by tragic plane crash

King Charles has spoken out following a devastating plane crash in India involving a flight bound for London.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner went down in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff on Thursday, June 12. There were 242 people on board, including 53 British nationals.

The King, 71, reacted to the tragic incident in a personal statement on the royal family’s official Instagram page.

“My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning,” he expressed. “Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones.”

Charles also praised first responders, adding, “I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time.”

The aircraft had just departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport and was headed for London Gatwick when it lost contact with air traffic control at an altitude of just 625 feet. A mayday call was made, but there was no further response.

The plane crashed into a residential area near the airport, reportedly hitting a doctors’ hostel. At least 25 people on the ground were injured.

Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian, in addition to the British travellers. 

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