First Officer Clive Kundar was more than just a promising pilot. He was a symbol of courage, focus, and quiet resilience—someone whose journey toward the skies inspired everyone who knew him. At just 28, he had already logged over 1,100 hours of flight time, placing him within reach of becoming a captain. But it wasn’t just numbers that defined Clive—it was heart. Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, pilots of the ill-fated Air India Flight AI-171, were both experienced with wide-bodied aircraft, logging over 9,000 flying hours between them, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
Born in Mangaluru, Karnataka, and raised in Mumbai, Clive’s fascination with aviation began early. Initially pursuing aeronautical engineering, he made a bold pivot to pilot training in the United States, a decision that showcased his clarity of purpose and immense drive. After earning his wings, he returned to India—ready to contribute to the nation’s aviation legacy with Air India’s Dreamliner fleet.
Calm in the Cockpit, Humble on the Ground
Clive was known for his sharp discipline, calm presence, and humility—traits that made him a favorite among fellow crew members and mentors. He wasn’t loud or flashy; instead, he led by example. In the cockpit, he was laser-focused. Outside of it, he was warm and approachable. His quiet confidence was reassuring, especially on long-haul flights where clarity and trust meant everything.
To his family, he was more than a pilot—he was their pride, their joy, and their protector. Every milestone was marked with prayers, pride, and boundless love.
The Final Flight: Air India 171
On June 12, 2025, First Officer Clive Kundar boarded Air India Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London—a transcontinental route he had trained for and dreamt of flying. Shortly after takeoff, the Dreamliner suffered a catastrophic engine failure believed to be due to loss of thrust. Captain Sumeet Sabharwal made a desperate Mayday call, but just 2 kilometers from the runway, the aircraft went down.
Clive, along with the rest of the crew, died doing what he loved most—flying.
Legacy Beyond the Flight Hours
In an industry that often measures experience in flight hours and ranks, Clive’s life was a reminder that impact is measured in passion, presence, and how you make others feel. He embodied the very spirit of aviation—precision, grace under pressure, and an unyielding desire to rise.
Though his journey was tragically brief, his legacy now lives in:
- Every young cadet who dreams of the skies
- Every mentor who recalls Clive’s eagerness to learn
- Every parent who whispers a prayer when their child takes to the skies
- Every safe landing made in honor of those who’ve flown before
A Final Salute to the Skies
Clive’s memory now soars higher than any jet could fly. His story is not one of unfinished potential—but of a life that fulfilled its purpose with quiet dignity. His absence is a painful void, but his spirit is etched into every sunrise witnessed from the cockpit, every takeoff filled with hope, and every quiet moment when pilots glance skyward.
🕊️ Rest in peace, First Officer Clive Kundar.
The skies were your canvas—your spirit still soars.
