**UK Investigation Team Deployed to India Following Air India Flight Crash**
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that a team from the United Kingdom has been sent to India to assist in the investigation of the tragic crash of Air India’s London-bound flight AI 171, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. This announcement follows the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) of the UK, which is responsible for investigating civil aircraft accidents, stating that it will send a multidisciplinary team to support the Indian-led inquiry.
The incident took place on Thursday evening when the flight, carrying 242 individuals, crashed just minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau in India is currently examining the cause of the crash.
Starmer stated, “The investigation is ongoing, and we have dispatched an investigation team; that’s been deployed. The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, is leading on this, and we will provide updates as soon as possible. We are collaborating with Indian authorities to establish the facts. I urge all family and friends of those affected to contact the Foreign Office for further information.”
The AAIB has indicated that it will hold “expert status” in the Indian investigation due to the presence of UK citizens on board the aircraft. A statement from the AAIB noted, “We are deploying a multidisciplinary investigation team to India to support the Indian-led investigation. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic accident.”
In a video message from Downing Street, Prime Minister Starmer expressed his devastation over the scenes from the crash site in Gujarat. Among the 242 passengers were 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, one Canadian, and seven Portuguese citizens, in addition to the 12 crew members.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on uncovering the facts surrounding this tragic event and providing support to those impacted.
**FAQ**
**What is the current status of the investigation into the Air India flight crash?**
A UK investigation team has been dispatched to India to assist in the ongoing inquiry led by the Indian authorities, with the AAIB providing expert support due to the presence of UK citizens on board.
