✈️ Tragedy Strikes Shortly After Takeoff
Crashes After Takeoff — One Survivor Among 242 Passengers
A devastating aviation incident occurred on Thursday when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, flight number AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft reportedly reached an altitude of just 625 feet before it plummeted, according to flight tracking data.
There were 242 passengers on board, including Gujarat's former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Unfortunately, over 200 fatalities have been reported, with recovery operations still underway.
🙏 A Miracle Amid the Wreckage
Amidst the devastation, a ray of hope emerged — a single passenger survived. Identified as Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, the 40-year-old man was seated on Seat 11A, which is now being called a “miraculous seat” by social media users. Despite falling from a height of 625 feet, he managed to walk away from the crash site — bruised, injured, but alive.
He was discovered wandering near the crash site and was taken to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, where he is currently under treatment.
🗣️ Survivor’s Statement
Speaking from his hospital bed, Ramesh recounted:
“Within 30 seconds of takeoff, I heard a loud noise. The aircraft started shaking violently, and before I could react, everything went black.”
He described waking up surrounded by wreckage and deceased passengers.
“I was terrified, but I knew I had to get out. I started walking through the debris. Someone found me and rushed me to the hospital.”
He also mentioned his brother Ajay, who was on the same flight but seated in a different row. Ramesh is still searching for him and has appealed to authorities and the public for help.
🛢️ Aircraft Fuel and Impact Zone
According to aviation sources, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner was carrying between 80 to 90 tons of aviation fuel, as it was preparing for a long-haul flight of over 12 hours. This contributed significantly to the post-crash fire and destruction.
Authorities confirmed that the crash occurred in a densely populated residential area, raising fears that the casualty numbers may rise further.
🧾 What Officials Are Saying
Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik confirmed the discovery of the survivor:
"We found a man alive on Seat 11A. His name is Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, and he is currently undergoing treatment."
Senior officer Vidhi Chaudhary added that over 50 injured passengers have been admitted to various hospitals across the city. Emergency services are working around the clock to identify victims and assist families.
🛫 About the Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is considered a modern marvel in aviation, capable of flying up to 14 hours non-stop. The aircraft involved in this crash, however, failed shortly after takeoff, raising serious questions about mechanical failure or possible pilot error.
Former aviation minister and current BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy expressed his condolences and called for a detailed technical investigation.
“While I am not an aviation expert, this is a highly unfortunate event. We must investigate every angle to find out what went wrong.”
📍 Current Status and Investigation
Authorities are conducting a thorough examination of the crash site and black box data. Families of passengers are being assisted, and grief counseling has been initiated at major hospitals.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Boeing representatives are expected to arrive on-site for a full-scale investigation.
🕯️ In Memory and Hope
This tragic accident has left the entire nation in mourning. The story of Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, the lone survivor, stands as a testament to human willpower and perhaps divine intervention. His survival brings a glimmer of hope amid such a massive tragedy.