Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 — As the country reels from the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash that claimed over 290 lives, one name is echoing across s
Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025 — As the country reels from the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash that claimed over 290 lives, one name is echoing across social media with grief and admiration — Clive Kunder, the co-pilot of the ill-fated flight. His passing has struck a personal chord with many, including actor Vikrant Massey, who shared a heartfelt tribute, mourning the loss of a “kind soul and an old friend.”
Clive, who was in his early 30s, was known not only for his exceptional skills as a pilot but also for his warm personality and quiet confidence. In the aftermath of the crash, messages of condolence and remembrance have poured in from colleagues, friends, and even celebrities — with Vikrant Massey’s emotional post drawing special attention.
A Life in the Skies
Born and raised in Mumbai, Clive Kunder had aviation in his blood. Friends recall how he had dreamed of flying planes since his teenage years, inspired by his father who once worked as a ground technician for Indian Airlines. After graduating from flight school with distinction, Clive quickly rose through the ranks and was recently promoted to Senior First Officer with Air India.
“He always took his job seriously,” said a former flying partner. “He wasn’t just flying a plane — he was carrying lives, and he understood the responsibility that came with that.”
Clive had been co-piloting domestic and international flights for the last six years. By all accounts, he was poised for a bright future.
The Final Flight
On the morning of June 11, 2025, Clive boarded Air India Flight AI171 as co-pilot alongside the captain, preparing for what should have been a routine journey from Ahmedabad to Delhi. Sadly, just minutes after takeoff, tragedy struck. The aircraft lost altitude, and in a matter of seconds, crashed into a residential zone near BJ Medical College, claiming hundreds of lives — including that of Clive.
His last known transmission to Air Traffic Control reportedly indicated an “engine failure” and a request for an emergency return. Experts are still investigating the sequence of events, but one thing is certain: Clive and the crew fought till the very last second to regain control and minimize impact.
“He did his duty till the end,” said an Air India spokesperson, choking up during a press conference. “He died with honor.”
Vikrant Massey’s Tribute: A Personal Loss
Among the many who were devastated by Clive’s passing was actor Vikrant Massey, who shared a moving Instagram story shortly after the news broke. The two had reportedly known each other from their school days in Mumbai.
“Shattered. Lost a dear friend in the crash. Clive, you were one of the kindest and most sincere people I knew. Rest well, brother. You’ll be missed terribly.” – Vikrant Massey via Instagram
Massey’s words struck a chord with thousands, and many followers responded by sharing their own grief and stories of knowing Clive or traveling on his flights.
Tributes Pour In
Clive’s friends describe him as “humble, respectful, and focused.” He loved biking on the weekends and was known to help juniors with flight training advice. Fellow pilots took to Twitter and LinkedIn to share memories:
“Clive was a pilot’s pilot. Calm under pressure, never arrogant. We lost one of the best.”
“Had the pleasure of flying with him once. Just a genuinely nice guy.”
“Hard to believe he’s gone. We were planning a Goa trip next month.”
One of his closest friends shared a message that read:
“I still see your name pop up on my WhatsApp. You were the first one to wish me on my birthday every year. Now I’ll only be wishing you in my prayers.”
Honoring His Memory
Clive’s family, devastated by the loss, has been flown to Ahmedabad by Air India officials. The airline has offered full support, including compensation, travel, and access to grief counselors.
Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a ₹1 crore compensation for each bereaved family, including Clive’s. The aviation ministry also confirmed that he will be posthumously honored for his service and sacrifice.
Plans are underway to hold a memorial in Mumbai next week, where friends, fellow aviators, and the public can pay their last respects.
A Symbol of Quiet Heroism
In tragedies like this, numbers often overshadow names. But Clive Kunder’s story reminds us that every life lost had meaning, purpose, and dreams. He wasn’t just a co-pilot — he was a son, a friend, a dreamer, and a protector of the skies.
His actions in the final moments — working tirelessly with the crew to try and save the aircraft — are being hailed as an act of heroism, and rightly so.
In the words of Vikrant Massey’s tribute:
“You flew with courage. Now rest with peace.”
Final Words
As investigations continue and the nation mourns, it is names like Clive Kunder that will be remembered — not just as victims, but as humans who lived and loved.
To many, he was a friend. To others, a colleague. But to all of us, Clive is now a symbol of dedication, humanity, and silent bravery in the face of catastrophe.
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