A tragic plane crash in India has left many in shock, with only one person surviving among the 242 passengers and crew on board. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, where the Air India flight AI171 was headed to London Gatwick. The crash happened on June 12, 2025, and the airline confirmed that more than 240 people lost their lives.
Viswash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national of Indian origin, is the sole survivor. He was seated near an emergency exit and managed to escape through a broken hatch. Ramesh described the horrifying moments during the crash, recalling how he witnessed others dying around him. He said, “For some time I thought I was also going to die. But when I opened my eyes, I realized I was alive.” He was later seen limping down the street, his shirt stained with blood and bruises visible on his face.
Ramesh was traveling with his brother Ajay, who was seated in a different part of the plane. They were returning to the UK after visiting family in India. Ramesh described the moments leading up to the crash, saying it felt like the plane was stuck in the air just seconds after takeoff. Suddenly, he noticed flickering lights and then the aircraft collided with a building.
After the crash, Ramesh called his family in Leicester, telling them he had survived but was unsure about his brother’s fate. His family expressed relief that he was okay, but they are devastated about the loss of others, including Ramesh’s brother.
Dr. Dhaval Gameti, who treated Ramesh at a hospital in Ahmedabad, stated that he suffered burns and multiple injuries but was no longer in danger. Ramesh’s escape, given the circumstances, has been described as miraculous.
The crash also claimed lives on the ground, as the plane crashed into a nearby medical school dormitory. Rescue teams are currently searching for missing persons and investigating the cause of the crash. Air India has stated that a thorough investigation is underway, and Boeing has offered assistance in the inquiry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site and met Ramesh in the hospital, offering support during this difficult time. The investigation into what caused this disaster is ongoing, and it will take time to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.