Vikrant Massey mourns loss of family friend in Air India crash; latter was the '1st Officer Operating' onboard

A massive tragedy struck on June 12 as Air India Flight AI-171, en route to London from Ahmedabad, crashed shortly after take-off. The accident claimed the lives of more than 200 people. Among the victims was Clive Kunder, who served as the First Officer operating the flight. Actor Vikrant Massey confirmed the loss on social media, revealing that Clive was his family friend.

Vikrant shared the news through his Instagram story, stating, “My heart breaks for the families & loved ones of the ones who lost their lives in the unimaginably tragic air crash in Ahmedabad today. It pains even more to know that my uncle, Clifford Kunder, lost his son, Clive Kunder, who was the 1st officer operating on that fateful flight. May God give strength to you and your family uncle and to all deeply affected.”

The flight took off from Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM and reportedly crashed just 18 minutes later. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft was carrying 242 people, including crew. Among the passengers, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese nationals. The crash has caused widespread grief, drawing responses from across the country.

Several Bollywood personalities and public figures have offered condolences on social media. Many have expressed shock and sadness at the scale of the loss.

Air India later released an official statement confirming the incident: “Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight was carrying 242 passengers and crew. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals. We have also set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444. Air India is fully cooperating with the authorities investigating this incident.”

The airline also said it would continue to provide updates through its X handle and official website. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently underway. The nation mourns this devastating loss, with families awaiting more information about their loved ones.