'I Die Every Day': Ahmedabad Crash Survivor Ramesh Opens Up About His Pain

Ahmedabad: On June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI-171, bound for London Gatwick from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad, crashed just seconds after takeoff. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft fell in a residential area of ​​Megani Nagar and hit the hostel of BJ Medical College. Of the 242 people on board the plane, 241 died, while many people also died on the ground. This was the first fatal accident of the Boeing 787 model.

Sole Survivor: How did Ramesh Vishwas Kumar survive?

Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, a 40-year-old British citizen (of Indian origin), was sitting on seat 11A, which was near the emergency exit. The plane exploded and caught fire 32 seconds after takeoff. Ramesh saved his life by jumping from the emergency door amidst the burning debris and dead bodies. He said that screams were echoing all around and it was filled with smoke.

Is Ramesh still in shock after six months?

Even after being discharged from the hospital, Ramesh could not recover completely. He has PTSD, difficulty walking, and lives separated from his family. His brother also died in the accident, whose coffin he himself shouldered. There are nightmares at night, and normal life has become difficult.

What is the airline and government response?

Air India confirmed the sole survivor and promised help to the victims' families. Investigation found that the engine fuel control switch was accidentally cut off. Ramesh has termed the interim compensation as less and has demanded more assistance. Tata Group has assured long-term support.

Why is this accident special?

This is the biggest plane crash in recent years. In what was the first fatal crash of a Boeing 787, it fell into a residential area and caused extensive damage on the ground. 169 Indians and 53 British, including 13 children, were killed. Air India canceled flight number AI-171 forever.

What are the safety lessons? 

This accident raises serious questions on aviation safety. Strict standards are necessary to prevent technical malfunctions, pilot training, and human error. Survivors like Ramesh should get long-term mental and financial support. This tragedy reminds us that behind every flight lie the hopes of families—it is everyone's responsibility to keep them safe.