Thursday, 12 June 2025.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) extends our condolences and sympathies to the families and nations affected by the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171, which occurred this afternoon shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad Airport in Gujarat, India.

The London-bound Boeing 787-8 aircraft was carrying 242 passengers and crew members when it crashed into a residential area, resulting in the devastating loss of all the lives on board. Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national.

We, therefore, also send our thoughts and solidarity to the governments and citizens of the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada who have also suffered losses in this devastating tragedy.

Beyond this tragedy, the incident raises urgent concerns about Boeing aircraft safety as this crash comes after a pattern of quality-control issues over the past few years. These issues have exposed how Boeing aircraft have become increasingly compromised, with incidents mounting despite warnings and interventions. It is incredibly alarming that despite global concerns, these planes continue to fly over our skies.

The EFF trusts that the Indian government will conduct a thorough, transparent investigation into the cause of the crash, and we urge the Indian government and Air India to provide full support to the grieving families. It is essential that accountability, truth, and justice accompany the mourning of lives lost.

May all the souls who passed away in this disaster rest in peace.

ISSUED BY ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Sinawo Thambo (National Spokesperson) 072 629 7422

Thembi Msane (National Spokesperson) 061 467 8169

Andiswa Madikazi (Parliament Media Liason) 069 516 4924

Thato Lebyane (Media Inquiries) 078 563 1581