Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey has issued a clarification amidst widespread confusion following the June 12 Air India crash near Ahmedabad. Massey emphasized that the deceased co-pilot, First Officer Clive Kunder, was not his cousin but a family friend.
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In an Instagram Story, Massey wrote:
“Dear friends in the media and elsewhere, the unfortunately deceased Mr Clive Kunder was not my cousin. The Kunders are our family friends. Request no more speculations and let the family and loved ones grieve in peace.”
This message followed earlier posts where Massey mentioned his “uncle Clifford Kunder lost his son, Clive Kunder”, which led many to assume Clive was his cousin.
Sequence of Posts That Sparked Confusion
- Initial Post (June 12 evening):
Massey mourned the tragedy, writing that his “uncle, Clifford Kunder, lost his son, Clive Kunder” — the First Officer aboard the ill-fated flight, describing him as part of a “personal loss”. - Media Coverage:
Many outlets reported that Massey had lost his cousin, referencing the Instagram wording and familial connection. - Clarification Issued (June 13):
Massey publicly corrected the misunderstanding, asserting Clive was a family friend and appealing to the media to respect the grieving family’s privacy.
Who Was Clive Kunder?
- Professional Background & Flight Details:
First Officer Clive Kunder had around 1,100 flight hours and served under Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, who had over 8,200 hours of experience.
Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (registration VT-ANB), was en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick when it crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at approximately 1:38–1:43 pm IST on June 12. - Casualties & Survivor:
Of the 242 onboard (230 passengers, 12 crew), tragically 241 lost their lives. A single passenger, identified as Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, survived and survived to describe the ordeal.
Massey’s Appeal for Accurate Reporting & Privacy
Through his Instagram update, Massey expressed deep grief and urged the press to halt speculation. He said the Kunders are “family friends” and asked for the media’s cooperation to allow the family to mourn in peace.
Multiple outlets, including NDTV and Hindustan Times, subsequently confirmed the clarity that Clive was not Massey’s blood relative.
Industry & Public Response
The crash ranks among India’s deadliest recent aviation crashes, prompting condolences from political leaders and widespread media coverage. Prime Minister Modi was reported to visit the site.
In Bollywood, many colleagues expressed sorrow and shock—not only for the magnitude of the loss but also due to Massey’s personal connection with Clive.
Background on Vikrant Massey
Vikrant Massey, known for acclaimed roles in Masaan, 12th Fail, and the series Mirzapur, has earned a reputation for choosing intense and socially relevant roles. His recent posts struck a chord because they blended personal grief with a plea for responsible journalism.
Crash Under Investigation
Official inquiries are underway by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, adhering to ICAO protocols. Authorities are studying the black box and collecting data to determine the crash’s cause.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson emphasized transparency and support for families, stating the airline will collaborate fully with investigators and has set up a helpline for victims’ next-of-kin.
What Happens Now
- Media Responsibility:
Vikrant Massey’s clarification highlights the importance of precision—labels like “uncle’s son” can lead to misreporting. He urged media outlets to “verify facts” to avoid deeper pain. - Ongoing Investigation:
The probe into Flight AI171 continues, with a focus on mechanical issues, human factors, and air traffic control data, as per international norms. - Supporting the Bereaved:
Victim families await answers. Massey’s public appeal aims to shield the Kunder family from added scrutiny, and many hope the media will retreat with sensitivity and respect.
By – Sonali