An Air India flight has tragically crashed after takeoff, with numerous casualties and only one survivor.
Topics covered
In a devastating turn of events, an Air India flight bound for London Gatwick crashed mere minutes after taking off from Ahmedabad. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was carrying 242 people, with 53 of them being British nationals.
Reports confirm that 241 lives have been lost, with only one survivor emerging from the wreckage.
Details of the crash
The flight, identified as AI171, departed from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:38 local time. Eyewitnesses reported that shortly after takeoff, the aircraft issued a mayday call.
Tragic footage shared online depicts the plane descending rapidly, nose up, before colliding with a building near BJ Medical College Hostel, igniting a massive fire.
Victims of the tragedy
The crash has claimed the lives of numerous individuals, including a family from Wales. Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter, Sara, were among those confirmed dead. Sara’s headteacher, Abdullah Samad, described her as “a ray of sunshine” who brought light into the classroom. The family had traveled to India for a surprise trip and were known for their charitable contributions within their community.
Survivor updates
Amidst the heartbreak, there is one confirmed survivor: 39-year-old Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who was seated in 11A. Currently hospitalized, he is receiving treatment while grappling with the loss of his brother, Ajay Ramesh, who was also on the flight.
Investigation and responses
Authorities are already investigating the cause of this tragic accident. The Boeing 787, known for its fuel efficiency and safety, has not seen a fatal crash until now. Flight Safety Foundation President Hassan Shahidi emphasized the aircraft’s reliability, stating it has operated globally without significant issues.
Air India’s statement
In an official statement, Air India expressed deep sorrow over the incident, confirming 241 fatalities and stating that efforts are focused on supporting those affected. The airline has established helplines for families and is cooperating fully with investigative authorities. CEO Campbell Wilson acknowledged that while investigations will take time, the priority is to ensure accurate updates and support for grieving families.
Compensation for victims’ families
The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced compensation amounting to ₹1 crore (approximately £95,000) for each bereaved family, as well as covering medical expenses for those injured and aiding in the reconstruction of the damaged medical college building.
Future concerns
As investigations continue, the aviation community watches closely, raising questions about aircraft safety and regulatory measures. How could this tragedy have been avoided? What changes will be implemented in the wake of this disaster? The answers remain elusive as the world mourns the loss of so many lives.
Stay tuned as more details emerge regarding this unfolding tragedy.
