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.
