Monarch offers heartfelt condolences as royal residences honour victims of
Ahmedabad tragedy
Flags at royal residences across the United Kingdom have been lowered to
half-mast following the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad that claimed 242
lives, including 53 British nationals.
While the Royal Standard remains at full mast—symbolising the continuity of
the monarchy—the gesture of lowering other flags reflects the nation’s
mourning.
In a deeply emotional statement, King Charles conveyed his sorrow, saying he
and his wife were “desperately shocked” by the devastating news.
“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,” he said.
The King is receiving regular updates on the incident and praised the bravery
of those responding on the ground.
“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,” he added.
The doomed flight carried 230 passengers and 12 crew members, including 169
Indians, 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese citizens.
