‘I’ve flown Air India all my life...’ Amid backlash, Vir Das voices support for crew

In the wake of the devastating crash of Air India flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London, which claimed over 260 lives, the airline has found itself at the center of public outrage.

However, while criticism pours in, actor and comedian Vir Das has stepped up to offer words of encouragement to the airline’s staff, acknowledging the immense difficulty they must be facing in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Vir Das sends message of solidarity

Taking to social media on Thursday, Vir Das shared a heartfelt note supporting Air India’s crew. Emphasising that it was a heartbreaking day for many families, he extended his prayers to those affected and chose to stand by the airline staff.

“It’s a tragic day for so many families. And all our thoughts and prayers are with them,” he wrote. “I just wanted to add my support for the crew. I’ve flown Air India all my life. It is not an airline without problems but without fail, I know them to be the best crew in the sky.”

The Emmy-winning comedian also acknowledged the emotional toll on the airline’s crew and expressed empathy for their pain.

“Time will tell what happened on this tragic flight. I cannot imagine how hard it is for them to do their job right now having lost their own,” he added. “For the crew, just to say one stands with you. And hopes to see you soon on a flight.”

Plane crash details

The crash of flight AI171 took place shortly after it departed from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday.

Just 33 seconds into the flight, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner struck a building located near the BJ Medical College’s doctors' hostel in the Meghani Nagar area.

The London-bound flight was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The incident has resulted in at least 260 confirmed fatalities, including that of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Only one person survived the crash, a British national of Indian origin.

(Agency inputs)