A tragic incident has unfolded involving an Air India flight, where a British citizen, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, has been identified as the sole survivor of a catastrophic crash that claimed the lives of at least 290 people. The aircraft, Air India Flight 171, was en route from Ahmedabad, India, to Gatwick Airport when it experienced difficulties shortly after takeoff. Witness accounts describe that the plane was unable to gain altitude and subsequently crashed into a doctor’s hostel on Thursday, with a total of over 240 passengers aboard and around 50 fatalities on the ground.
Vishwash Kumar Ramesh miraculously survived the incident despite sustaining injuries described as “impact injuries” to his chest, eyes, and feet. He recalled the harrowing moment when the plane split upon descent, leading to a loud explosion. Following this, he found himself surrounded by debris and bodies. Ramesh managed to escape and was promptly taken to a local hospital, where medical professionals confirmed that his condition was not critical.
His survival, particularly from seat 11A, has been deemed extraordinary by aviation experts, as that seat is positioned just above the wing’s spar, typically associated with lower chances of survivability in crashes. Ramesh, who was returning home after visiting family in India, expressed profound concern for his brother, Ajay Kumar Ramesh, who was also on board but remains unaccounted for. The search for his brother continues amid ongoing investigations.
In summary, the incident not only highlighted the tragic loss of life but also underscored the unpredictability of survival in air disasters, with Ramesh’s survival considered by some as nothing short of miraculous.