Air India plane crash: King Charles releases heartbreaking statement

Heartbroken King Charles III has issued an statement over India plane crash tragedy.

The Air India London-bound flight 171 crashed in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

There were 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The nationalities of those on board included 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese citizens, according to reports.

The British monarch wrote in personal statement: "My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning.

"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, as they await news of their loved ones."

Local police chief confirmed that at least 204 bodies have been recovered from the site of the crash.

Buckingham Palace has revealed that the King is being kept up to date on the tragedy.