Air India Crash: Co-Pilot Clive Kunder’s Body Brought Home to Mumbai, Last Rites at Sewri Cemetery

Mumbai — A pall of grief hung heavy over the Goregaon (West) neighborhood of Mumbai on Thursday morning as the mortal remains of First Officer Clive Kunder, co-pilot of the ill-fated Air India flight AI-171, were brought home. The young pilot tragically lost his life when the London-bound aircraft crashed during take-off from Ahmedabad on June 12, killing nearly all on board.

Clive, just 28 years old, lived with his elderly parents and younger sister on Ram Mandir Road. A promising aviation professional with 1,100 hours of flying experience, he was on duty alongside Captain Sumeet Sabharwal during what has now become one of the darkest air disasters in recent Indian aviation history.

A Final Journey Home

A casket bearing Clive’s body arrived at Mumbai airport early Thursday on a special Air India cargo flight. Family members, supported by friends, quietly received his remains and brought them to his residence for the last farewell.

The quiet lanes of Goregaon saw a steady stream of visitors—neighbors, airline colleagues, school friends, and aviation enthusiasts—gathering to pay homage. Many stood silently with folded hands, some carrying white flowers, others offering heartfelt condolences to a grieving family.

“He was full of life, always helping his parents, always dreaming about flying higher,” said family friend Wilma D’Souza. “His loss feels personal to all of us who knew him.”

The body will remain at his residence until 1 PM to allow well-wishers and colleagues to offer their final respects. The last rites will be performed at Sewri Christian Cemetery later this afternoon.

A Dream Cut Short

Born and raised in Mumbai, Clive was the son of devout Christian parents and had long dreamt of becoming a pilot. After completing his training, he joined Air India just two years ago and quickly earned the respect of his seniors and peers.

Though relatively new, his confidence in the cockpit was admired by many. “He was professional, calm under pressure, and deeply passionate about flying,” said a colleague from Air India who flew with him last month. “He had a bright future ahead.”

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that Clive had logged over 1,100 flight hours. Captain Sabharwal, his commander on AI-171, was a veteran with more than 8,200 hours of experience.

The Crash That Shook a Nation

Flight AI-171 was scheduled to depart for London from Ahmedabad when tragedy struck. Moments after take-off, the aircraft veered off trajectory and crashed into a medical complex near the airport. The incident claimed the lives of 241 people on board, leaving only one survivor, and killed 29 people on the ground.

Initial investigations suggest possible engine failure and communication malfunction, but a full report from DGCA is awaited.

Clive’s role in the cockpit was vital during the critical moments before the crash. Aviation experts believe the young co-pilot followed protocol till the very end. His headset transcript reportedly reveals calm and focused communication with ATC until the final seconds.

Mumbai Mourns Another Brave Soul

Just two days ago, the last rites of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, the pilot-in-command, were held in Mumbai’s Powai. Today, the city bids farewell to Clive, whose story reflects the courage, commitment, and dreams that often lie behind the cockpit doors.

As mourners gathered in prayer around the Kunder home, the air was filled with emotion. For many, the grief is not just about losing a pilot—but losing a son of the city who carried its hopes high in the skies.

“He had only just begun to live his dream,” said a fellow cadet from his pilot training school. “And now he rests among the stars he once soared past.”

Air India Pays Tribute

In a brief statement, Air India expressed deep condolences to the Kunder family and praised Clive’s service.

“First Officer Clive Kunder was a dedicated and bright young pilot. His commitment to safety, discipline, and professionalism will be remembered always. We stand with his family during this difficult time.”

The airline has assured full support to the bereaved family and confirmed that a memorial service will be held at the company headquarters in the coming week.

The Road Ahead: Questions Remain

While mourning continues, so does the investigation. Aviation regulators and international agencies are jointly analyzing the black box data to determine the exact cause of the crash.

The tragedy has once again raised concerns about fleet safety, pilot fatigue, and aircraft maintenance. Industry watchdogs are pressing for faster reforms, better training protocols, and psychological evaluations to support younger pilots under pressure.

Conclusion: A Life Remembered

As Clive Kunder is laid to rest today at the Sewri Christian Cemetery, his memory remains alive—not just in the hearts of his loved ones but in the cockpit of every flight that takes off with courage and hope.

He died doing what he loved. And in that, he fulfilled a dream few get to chase, even if only for a short while.