A British man has survived a plane crash in India, which tragically claimed the lives of many others. Vishwash Kumar Ramesh was on Air India Flight 171 when it crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. In a shocking turn of events, he managed to escape and contacted his family just moments after the incident.
According to his brother, Nayan Kumar Ramesh, Vishwash made a video call to their father right after the crash, saying, "I don’t know how I’m alive." This heart-wrenching moment came just two minutes after their father spoke to him while the plane was still on the runway. Nayan shared that Vishwash was in seat 11A, close to an emergency exit, which likely helped him escape by jumping out through the emergency door.
The crash occurred on Thursday afternoon, June 12, 2025, as the plane was en route to London Gatwick. Initial reports suggested there were no survivors, but it was later confirmed that Vishwash was the only passenger to survive from the 242 people aboard, which included 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise shortly after takeoff, followed by the plane crashing into a building near a medical school. Vishwash described the chaotic scene, saying he was surrounded by bodies and debris. He sustained injuries but was able to stand and run to safety, where emergency services assisted him.
Tragically, three members of the same British family were among those who did not survive the crash. Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa, and their four-year-old daughter Sara were confirmed dead. Their loss has left the community in mourning.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the UK Foreign Office is working with Indian authorities to support the families affected. A reception center has been established at London Gatwick for relatives seeking information.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling the incident heartbreaking. The crash marks a significant event, as it is the first recorded crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a model that has safely completed millions of flights in its history.
Vishwash’s survival has been described as a miracle, but it comes with a heavy heart as his family worries about his brother, who was also on the flight but has not been located. The emotional toll on the family and the wider community is profound, leaving many grappling with fear and loss.