Saudi King and Crown Prince Extend Condolences to India After Deadly Plane Crash

RIYADH— Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have extended heartfelt condolences to Indian President Droupadi Murmu following the tragic crash of an Air India passenger plane in Ahmedabad, India.

The devastating accident occurred on Thursday when a London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying over 240 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft went down near the airport in Ahmedabad—the capital of Gujarat—crashing into a nearby medical college hostel and bursting into flames. Thick black smoke could be seen billowing from the crash site.

Officials confirmed that only one person survived the crash, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India recently. Rescue teams are continuing to work at the site, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.

In separate condolence cables sent to President Murmu, both King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed expressed their deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and to the people of India. They also conveyed their hopes for a swift recovery for those who were injured in the incident.

The messages of solidarity underscore the strong diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and India, particularly in moments of shared grief and humanitarian concern.

Authorities in both countries have pledged full cooperation as the investigation unfolds.