Clive Kunder | Farewell Clive Kunder, Co-Pilot Of Air India Flight Which Crashed In Ahmedabad

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Farewell to Clive Kunder: The Tragic End of a Promising Life in Aviation

The aviation industry is no stranger to tragedies, but the loss of a young and promising life like Clive Kunder’s has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. The 32-year-old co-pilot of the ill-fated Air India Flight 171, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, was not just a skilled aviator but a beloved son, brother, and friend. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the larger aviation community, who are struggling to come to terms with the void left behind by this bright and ambitious young man.

A Life Full of Promise

Clive Kunder was born in Mumbai and hailed from a coastal Karnataka family. His father worked on offshore rigs, while his mother, a former Air India crew member, served the airline for over 33 years. Growing up in a household with a strong connection to aviation, it was no surprise that Clive developed a fascination for flying at a young age.

After completing his schooling in Andheri and graduating from Wilson College in Mumbai, Clive pursued his dream of becoming a pilot. He joined the aviation industry in 2013, marking the beginning of a career that would see him rise rapidly through the ranks. His passion for flying and commitment to excellence earned him admiration from his colleagues and mentors alike.

By 2017, Clive had joined Air India, where he continued to hone his skills as a co-pilot. Despite logging over 1,100 flying hours, he was still working toward the 1,500 hours required to command an aircraft. His dedication to his craft and his disciplined approach to work made him a role model for aspiring pilots.

The Fateful Day

Tragedy struck on June 12, 2025, when Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad. Clive was serving as the co-pilot on the nearly 10-hour international flight bound for London. He was assisting Captain Sabharwal in the cockpit when the catastrophic event unfolded.

The crash claimed the lives of all onboard, leaving families shattered and the nation mourning. For Clive’s family, friends, and colleagues, the loss was particularly devastating. A young man with so much potential and a bright future ahead was gone too soon.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

Clive’s mortal remains were brought to Mumbai early in the morning on the day of his funeral. His body was kept at his family’s residence in Goregaon until 1 PM, allowing friends, neighbors, and loved ones to pay their last respects. The atmosphere was heavy with grief as people gathered to bid farewell to a man who had touched so many lives with his kindness and humility.

Later in the afternoon, Clive’s final journey began. His body was taken to the Savory Christian Cemetery in Mumbai, where the funeral rites were held. Family members, friends, and colleagues turned out in large numbers to honor his memory.

Remembering Clive

Those who knew Clive remember him not just as a skilled pilot but as a remarkable human being. His friends describe him as someone with a huge heart, a warm smile, and a genuine respect for everyone he met. He was known for his humility and his ability to make people feel valued, regardless of their background or status.

One of his gym buddies, who had known Clive for several years, shared, “Clive was a very ambitious man with big dreams. Despite his achievements, he was incredibly down-to-earth. He always greeted everyone with a smile and never had an ego. I’ve never met anyone like him.”

Another friend added, “He was more than just a professional. He was someone who cared deeply about people. He had a way of making everyone feel special.”

Clive’s teachers and professors also spoke fondly of him, recalling his discipline, intelligence, and passion for science. They described him as a student who excelled not only academically but also in his interactions with peers and mentors.

A Family’s Grief

For Clive’s family, the loss is immeasurable. His father, who hails from Mangalore, and his mother, who served as a flight attendant with Air India, were immensely proud of their son’s achievements. Clive’s mother, in particular, shared a special bond with him, as they both shared a love for aviation.

The funeral notice released by the family read, “It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of our beloved son and brother, Captain Clive Kunder, who left us on the 12th of June 2025. Your presence and prayers will mean a lot to our family.”

As the family gathered for the final rites, their grief was palpable. Clive’s parents, siblings, and extended family members struggled to hold back tears as they said their final goodbyes to a young man who had brought so much joy and pride into their lives.

A Community Mourns

Clive’s death has left a deep void not only in his family but also in the aviation community and among his friends. His colleagues at Air India remember him as a dedicated and talented pilot who was always eager to learn and grow.

One of his colleagues shared, “Clive was on the path to becoming a captain. He had the skills, the discipline, and the passion needed to excel in this field. It’s heartbreaking to lose someone with so much potential.”

The loss has also been felt deeply by his friends, who remember him as a loyal and caring individual. “Clive was the kind of person who would go out of his way to help others. He was a true friend and a wonderful human being,” said one of his close friends.

A Legacy of Kindness and Ambition

Clive Kunder’s story is one of ambition, kindness, and resilience. He was a young man who worked tirelessly to achieve his dreams, while also making time to connect with the people around him. His humility and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Clive’s legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved him. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Moving Forward

As the aviation industry grapples with the loss of Flight 171 and its crew, Clive’s family and friends are left to pick up the pieces and find a way to move forward. The tragedy has highlighted the risks and challenges faced by those in the aviation profession, as well as the resilience and dedication of those who choose this path.

For Clive’s loved ones, the road ahead will be difficult. But they take solace in the knowledge that he lived a life full of purpose and passion, touching the lives of countless people along the way.

A Final Farewell

As the funeral service concluded, Clive’s friends and family gathered around his grave to say their final goodbyes. Tears flowed freely as they shared stories and memories of a young man who had brought so much light into their lives.

One of his friends summed it up best: “Clive may be gone, but his spirit will always be with us. He was more than just a pilot—he was a son, a brother, a friend, and a role model. We will miss him dearly, but we will never forget him.”

Clive Kunder’s story is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the impact one person can have on the world around them. As his family, friends, and colleagues mourn his loss, they also celebrate the legacy of a life well-lived—a life filled with love, ambition, and kindness.

Rest in peace, Clive Kunder. You will be missed but never forgotten.

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