DEVASTATED

Communities across the world mourn the loss of their friends and family killed on Air India’s flight to London Gatwick from Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025. Asian Voice speaks to those grieving, as the wait for answers deepen the pain.

Subhasini Naicker Wednesday 18th June 2025 06:56 EDT
 
 

The London-bound Air India Flight AI171,a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into a residential area in Ahmedabad shortly after take-off, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. The sole survivor is a 40-year-old British man.
 The plane crashed less than a minute after take-off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport, striking a residential building used as doctors' housing near BJ Medical College and Civil Hospital.

Doctors say 270 bodies have been recovered, with efforts ongoing to confirm identities through DNA and determine ground casualties.

Communities across India and the UK are mourning their loved ones, with vigils and prayer services taking place in temples and community centres in cities such as London, Leicester, Ahmedabad, and beyond to honour the victims.

Following the recent crash, two India-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliners reported mid-flight technical issues. A British Airways flight from London Heathrow to Chennai (BA35) returned due to a flap adjustment failure, while an Air India flight from Hong Kong to Delhi turned back after an engine problem and was cancelled. The Air India Ahmedabad to London flight was also cancelled due to technical issues, along with several other Air India services, adding to growing concerns over aircraft reliability.

India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the crash inquiry, with support from US and UK teams.

Investigators have recovered the black box and cockpit voice recorder (CVR), which captures pilot conversations and cockpit sounds—tools expected to significantly aid the probe. 

Dr Dhaval Gameti, President of the Junior Doctors' Association, confirmed the hospital had received 270 bodies, including 241 believed to be passengers and crew of Flight AI171. Over 30 victims have been formally identified through DNA samples from relatives.

Flightradar24 data shows the 11-year-old Boeing 787-8 had made 25 trips from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick in the past two years.

On Friday, 13 June 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent about 20 minutes at the crash site before visiting the hospital to meet survivors, including the sole plane survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh. He later said, “the entire nation is praying for their speedy recovery.”

World leaders expressed shock and grief over the tragic crash including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Canadian PM Mark Carney, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and more offered condolences. 

Meanwhile, Air India is facing criticism after CEO Campbell Wilson’s public statement appeared to copy parts of an earlier American Airlines address, sparking backlash on social media over the airline’s crisis response. Air India has yet to comment.

Friends and families share stories after tragedy

Asian Voice spoke to several friends and family members of those who tragically lost their lives in the Ahmedabad–London plane crash. Loved ones shared their memories and the deep sense of loss they are grappling with in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Dr Prateek Joshi, Komi Vyas and three young children; twin boys Nakul and Pradyut, aged five, and daughter, Miraya, eight. Joshi, who worked at the Royal Derby hospital, is believed to have been travelling back from India, where his wife and children were based. The Derby Hindu Temple paid tribute to the family on its Facebook page, saying: “Dr Joshi [and his family] were devotees of our Mandir and supported us through their sincere service and dedication.” Neil Ryan, who lived next door to them for two years, also described them as “the nicest family”.

Speaking to Asian Voice, one of Dr Komi Vyas’s college friends, who was first to hear about, said, “When I first heard that her entire family might have been on the plane, I was in shock. Initially, I was told that Komi, her husband, their three children, and her in-laws were all on board. Later, I learned that her in-laws had only gone to the airport to see them off. Komi’s parents were also in Ahmedabad that day because her mother had undergone minor surgery that morning at Zydus Hospital. When the news broke, I was in surgery. Around 3pm, after my wife called to tell me about it, I tried calling Komi’s number. When I saw her Whatsapp last seen at 1:30 pm, I knew she had been on that plane. Her name appeared last on the passenger list, which confirmed my fears. It was a huge shock and very difficult to process.”

He continued: “Komi was my wife’s classmate from the MBBS 2004 batch, and I was one year senior. We all studied together for about eight years. She always had a smiling face. She lived in the same hostel as my wife, and we remained in touch after college — I had even recently spoken to her about her sister coming to my clinic. She was such a charming person, always cheerful, always talking about her children and family. Whenever I think of her, I remember that smiling, sincere doctor. This loss is deeply personal and not something I will be able to forget anytime soon. This morning, I spoke to her father — they have now recovered the bodies of all three children. We had been waiting anxiously for this. We are still waiting to locate Komi and her husband. The authorities are conducting DNA tests to confirm identities. There were very few children on that flight, so some clothing items helped in the identification. The government and friends have been supporting us in this difficult time.”

Raxa Modha, 55, from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, was travelling with her daughter-in-law Yasha Kamdar and two-year-old grandson Rudra. They were believed to be returning to the UK for a cremation and memorial service for Modha’s late husband, Kishor, who had passed away in India in April after choosing to spend his final days in his homeland.

Raxa and Kishor ran a successful Indian catering business, Pooja Caterers, and had three children and one grandchild. Her son Kishan, Yasha’s husband, is believed to have been on a separate flight home. The family had planned a prayer meeting later this month at Wellingborough’s Highfield Community Centre.

Mayor of Wellingborough, Raj Mishra said, “It is with profound sadness that we hear of the passing of Raxa Moda, a beloved member of the Wellingborough community, who tragically lost her life in the plane crash in Ahmedabad yesterday. Raxa was a beacon of compassion and selflessness, leading by example and touching countless lives. She dedicated herself to supporting families new to Wellingborough, helping them rebuild and thrive with her unwavering generosity.”

“Her quiet acts of kindness, included assisting with decorating HCC for various community events, supporting community events, and providing food to those in need. Raxa’s generosity extended beyond Wellingborough and Northamptonshire, as she donated to charities whenever called upon, both locally and internationally. A devoted follower of Sai Baba, she embodied the spirit of service and kindness,” he added. 

Indravandan Doshi and his wife Jyotiben, residents of Waghodia Road in Vadodara, tragically lost their lives in the crash. The elderly couple had left Vadodara just a day earlier and were en route to London to visit their daughter. Speaking to Asian Voice, their son-in-law Kaushik Shah shared the emotional turmoil his family is going through in the wake of the tragic crash. “At first, we had no clarity on which flight had crashed. Then, after videos started circulating online, we realised it was the same flight my in-laws were travelling on. My wife has been inconsolable, she hasn’t been able to speak since the incident.”

Speaking about the wait for DNA test results, he added, “One body has been confirmed, but we are still waiting for confirmation of the other. It’s been an agonising process.”

Reflecting on the suddenness of the tragedy, he said: “My in-laws were such kind, wonderful people — deeply religious and always ready to serve the community through their voluntary work. We never imagined we would be flying to India under such circumstances. With the school holidays, we had been planning to create happy family memories — but instead, this happened.”

Sole survivor and a missed flight save in AI-171 crash

When Air India’s London-bound flight AI-171 crashed just moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, all on board were initially feared dead — but two incredible stories of survival soon emerged.

The sole passenger to survive was 45-year-old Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, who had been seated in 11A, near the emergency exit. Remarkably, he managed to flee the wreckage and was captured on video walking away, clips of which quickly went viral. Now recovering from burn injuries to his left hand, Ramesh recalled: “My side of the plane didn’t hit the building. When the door broke open, I saw an opening and escaped. I just ran. I still can’t believe I survived.”

Seat 11A, in the first row of economy, proved crucial. “For a moment, I thought I was going to die. But when I opened my eyes, I realised I was alive. I unbuckled and ran out. The airhostess and uncle-aunties around me were gone,” he recounted. Ramesh also described the terrifying moment of the crash: “A minute after take-off, it felt like the plane got stuck. Then the green and white lights came on... they tried to lift the plane, but it crashed full speed into a building.”

In another twist of fate, Bhoomi Chauhan, a London-based passenger, narrowly missed the doomed flight by 10 minutes after getting stuck in traffic. "I’m completely devastated... my body is still shivering. Just those 10 minutes saved me. I don’t know how to explain this... my Ganpati Bappa saved me," she said, overwhelmed with emotion. Chauhan had returned to India for a holiday after two years and was flying back to London alone.

Lives lost, stories remembered
The promise of new beginnings and long-awaited reunions was shattered when the flight crashed into the densely populated Meghaninagar area just minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad. Among the 53 Britons on board were young families, students, and business travellers. One British national, 40-year-old Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, survived and is being treated for injuries. Over 70 passengers belonged to the Patel community.

Ajay Kumar Ramesh was sitting alongside his brother, Vishwash, on the opposite side of the aisle. The brothers had been travelling home after visiting family in India.

Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter Sara, from Gloucester, were among the victims. Nanabawa, a successful businessman, founded Rec2go and later Iceberg Recruitment Services, with offices in Gloucester and Ahmedabad. Vorajee, 30, a trained midwife, served as head of finance at Rec2go. Their imam, Abdullah Samad, described them as devoted to humanitarian causes, especially supporting Palestinians and improving healthcare in India.

Family members, now in Ahmedabad, have criticised the UK government’s poor communication and lack of support. After initially being told their loved ones had been identified and would be released within 72 hours, that promise was later withdrawn without explanation.

They also struggled to access medical or forensic support and said updates from local authorities have been inconsistent. A family spokesperson said: “There is no UK leadership here, no crisis professionals at the hospital. We are forced to make appointments to see consular staff 20 minutes away while our loved ones lie unidentified in an overstretched hospital.” Another family member added they felt “utterly abandoned” by the UK government.

The grieving family of Ramesh Chand Patel, a British national who died in the Ahmedabad plane crash, arrived in India on Friday to take his body home and pay their final respects. Patel had travelled to Gujarat for just nine days, a trip he made regularly out of love for his homeland. “He came last Tuesday—just to eat the Jambura fruit,” his daughter Priti Pandya said, her voice heavy with emotion. “He comes every year, stays for weeks, enjoys home-cooked meals, and just lives simply. This time, it was meant to be short. He didn’t come back.” Recalling their last conversation, Pandya added, “He video-called me on Tuesday, but I was working and thought I’d call back. I never got the chance.” “He loved this country. He wanted to be here. He died here—it was meant to be.”

Fiongal Greenlaw-Meek, 39, and his husband Jamie, 45, co-ran the Wellness Foundry, offering psychic readings, reiki, yoga, and tarot in South London and Ramsgate. Married in 2022, the couple had just completed a 10-day wellness retreat in India and shared joyful moments on social media—getting henna tattoos, shopping, and exploring local culture.

They arrived in Ahmedabad a day before their return flight. In a video recorded at the airport, Fiongal said, “We’re going back happily, happily, happily calm,” adding that they planned to turn their magical trip into their first vlog.

What was meant to be a joyful surprise turned to tragedy for 21-year-old UK student Dhavni Patel. Her parents, Rajnikant and Divyaben Patel, and her maternal aunt, Hemangi Ben, were among the victims of the Air India crash on Thursday afternoon. The family, from Vasad in Gujarat, had advanced their travel plans to attend Dhavni’s convocation in London and spend more time with her.

Bhavik Maheshwari (26), from Vadodara’s Vadi locality, was returning to London for work after recently marrying during a vacation in India. His parents had planned a larger wedding celebration for his next visit. His father, Arjun Maheshwari, tearfully told the media they last spoke around 1 p.m. on Thursday, just before take-off. “He called to say everything was fine and he was heading home. Half an hour later, we couldn’t believe what had happened.”

Adam Taju, 72, and his wife Hasina, 70, were travelling with their son-in-law, Altafhusen Patel, 51, who lives in London. Their granddaughter, Ammaarah Taju, speaking from the family’s home in Blackburn, said her father had rushed to London to support his sister as they awaited updates from Air India and officials.

Javed Ali Syed, a respected hotel manager at Best Western Kensington Olympia in London and an award-winning hotelier formerly with Comfort Inn, was travelling with his wife Mariam, who worked at Harrods, and their two young children, Zayn, 5, and Amani, 4.

Hardik Avaiya, 27, and Vibhooti Patel, 28, from Leicester’s Belgrave area, were also on board. Margi, 30, a close friend, said, “It’s devastating. They were such good people.” She added that her husband was en route to pick them up from Gatwick when he received the heartbreaking news of the crash.

Shailesh and Neha Parmar from Jamnagar, life dealt a cruel blow once again. Having lost their son in a plane crash years ago, they had slowly begun rebuilding their lives through faith and resilience. Recently, they returned to Gujarat seeking peace and reconnecting with loved ones. After a dental visit in Jamnagar, they boarded Air India flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London on June 12—tragically, it never reached its destination.

Dineshkumar, a lifelong farmer, was travelling abroad for the first time to visit his son in London. Friends had organised a farewell party in the Pindariya fields, playing the song *“Tu Kal Chala Jayega Toh Main Kya Karunga”*, unaware it would be their final goodbye. They even accompanied him to Ahmedabad airport to see him off.

Sisters Dhir and Heer Baxi, both in their 20s, were returning to London after a surprise trip to celebrate their grandmother’s birthday. Dhir was pursuing a degree in fashion design, while Heer worked as a product manager in the investment and renewable energy sector. Their elder brother, Ishan, said the family is “completely shell-shocked” by the tragedy. “Both had a natural aura of helping others and upheld strong family values. They aspired to be successful and travel the world, while embracing modern life without losing their traditional roots. In everything they did—whether in academics or fashion—they achieved success with grace and respect,” he shared.

A family of four from north-west London has also been identified among the victims. Hemaxi Shantilal and her husband Girish Lagli, from Wembley, were travelling on the London-bound flight with their young children, Aadiv and Taksvi. It is believed they were seated in row 30 of the aircraft, with little Taksvi on an adult’s lap.

Father-of-two Ketan Shah was among those on board the ill-fated flight. The 43-year-old, who had lived in Dorset for over a decade, is survived by his wife Megha, along with their teenage son and daughter.

Ketan, who ran a village community store in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, had travelled to India to visit his ailing father. His close friend of 15 years, Jigneshkumar Patel, described him as “like a brother” and said he was still struggling to process the devastating news. A tribute is being planned in Southampton. “Before the plane took off, he called his wife to say he was on board — that was their last conversation,” Mr Patel shared.

Renjitha Gopakumaran Nair, a nurse and mother in her 40s, was returning to the UK after a holiday visiting family in her home country. She had recently left her role at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, Hampshire, and had been living in the UK for about a year. Former colleagues at the NHS hospital described her as a “beautiful soul” who brought warmth, kindness, and compassion to both patients and co-workers. “She had the biggest heart and the brightest smile,” one colleague said, remembering her fondly.

Arjunbhai Patoliya, 37, had travelled from London to Vadiya, Gujarat, to scatter the ashes of his late wife, Bharatiben Patel, who died of cancer just three weeks earlier. The couple leave behind two young daughters, aged eight and four, who were in the care of Patel’s sister. Patoliya, a furniture designer, was described by a close neighbour as a kind, family-oriented man who was active in the community and deeply cared for those around him. Vinod Khimji of Inspired Elements Ltd has organised a fundraiser in memory of Arjun, a valued member of the team and a close family friend for many years. The campaign has already raised £606,155 to support Arjun’s daughters.
Manju Mahesh Patel, 79, was aboard flight AI 171 bound for London Gatwick when it tragically crashed in Ahmedabad. Seated in 12D, she was just behind the sole survivor in 11A. Her son, Chirag Mahesh Patel, said he hopes her passing was "instant and painless." “To the day I die, I’ll wonder about her final moments,” he said, pointing to a framed photo at their home. Ms Patel had spent the past few months in Ahmedabad doing charity work at a temple and was due to be picked up by her son at Gatwick.

Sayedmiya Inayatali, 48, an IT programmer from Wembley, was returning to the UK with his wife Nafisabanu, 46, and their children, Waqueeali, 25, and Taskin, 22, after visiting his 90-year-old mother in India. Their relative, Shahid Vhora, 52, who had planned to pick them up from Gatwick, said, “They were so happy, smiling in a photo before boarding. Now my life feels torn apart.” He described the family as close-knit and hardworking—Taskin was studying medicine, and Waqueeali worked in IT like his father. “Sayedmiya and I did everything together,” Vhora added. “Now I have to travel to India to sort things out.”
Adnan Master, 30, was returning to London alone after visiting relatives in India. His wife and child live in Forest Hill. A friend described him as “one of the nicest and hardest-working people you’d ever meet,” juggling two jobs—as a delivery driver and in a DIY store. “Everything he did was for his family,” they said. “He just wanted to give his child a better life.”
Panna Nagar, former headteacher of Northfleet Nursery School in Kent for 15 years, is remembered by her family as “the heart of the family.” Her granddaughter Ciara Chudasama wrote, “She shaped our lives in more ways than we can count.” In a tribute, the nursery described her as “a guiding light, an inspiration, and a champion for every child and staff member who walked through her doors.”
Kinal Mistry, 24, was dropped off at Ahmedabad airport by her father, Suraj, who took a final family photo, unaware it would be their last. Tearfully recalling his daughter, he said, “She was a wonder—beautiful inside and out. Her smile lit up every room.”

Prakash Lal Minarhia, a chef in London for 15 years, had returned to India for post-funeral rituals after his father’s passing. His family, still awaiting confirmation, said they hadn’t found the strength to tell his mother and wife back in their village.

Sahil Salim Ibrahim Patel, on his first-ever international flight, was heading to London for a dream scholarship meant to transform his family’s future. “Will they return him to us in a closed box?” his father said. “He deserves to come home with dignity.”

Gaurav and Kalyani Brahmbhatt, once longtime London residents, had moved back to Gandhinagar three years ago. “They were kind, driven, and always inspired us to dream big,” said a friend, Trupti Telrandhe.

Payal Khatik, a young woman from Himatnagar in Gujarat, was the first in her family to travel abroad. Full of excitement, she boarded her first international flight to the UK to pursue a Master’s degree in engineering and technology. Her father, a loading rickshaw driver, had taken out loans in the hope that her future would lift the family out of poverty. “She stayed with us after college and dreamed of studying in London,” said her father, Suresh Khatik. “We believed her education would change everything.”

Her family bid her farewell with pride and hope—but never imagined they would lose her so soon. Her death in the plane crash was confirmed through DNA testing. “She had so many dreams,” her cousin Bharat Chauhan said. “Now we are left shattered.”

Harshit, 30, and his wife Pooja, 28, had moved to Britain, where she was pursuing a master’s degree. They returned to India to consult a doctor. Harshit’s father, Anil Patel, 60, recalled their final goodbye at the airport, saying, “They were my everything. We video-called every day.”

Lawrence Christian had travelled to India to help his mother Ravina perform his father’s last rites. “He came for just a few days,” she said. “Now my husband is gone, and so is my son. I have no one left.” Lawrence had dreams of paying off their apartment loans and bringing his mother to London. “That year will never come,” Ravina said.

Khushboo, 21, had just married in January and was flying to London to start her new life. Her father saw her off at the airport—hours later, her family learned of the crash.

Abdhiben Patel, 40, a salon manager from Northampton and mother of an eight-year-old, had travelled to India to care for her ill mother. A close friend said, “She didn’t want to go. It was her first time leaving her son.”

Elcina Alpesh Makwana, 42, was the first British national whose body was returned and buried in Gujarat. She had visited India for dental treatment and to see family. Her uncle said, “She reassured her father she’d landed safely—but that call never came.” A mother of two, Makwana was remembered as a gentle soul who quietly supported children’s education in India.

The family of Manish Babu, 46, from Leicester, have paid tribute to a “very kind man” following his death in the Air India crash. Babu had been in South Asia for several months caring for his dying father and was returning home after his father’s passing. A long-time resident of Belgrave, he had lived in Leicester for 25 years and was well-known in the community. His brother has since travelled to India after the tragedy.

Mississauga dentist Dr Nirali Sureshkumar Patel was the sole Canadian on board the Air India flight. The Indian-origin dentist is survived by her husband, Dr Shukla, and their one-year-old child. “It’s absolutely shocking—there are no words,” said community leader Don Patel, who knew her family. Dr Nirali had spent just a few days in India before her return to Etobicoke. Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed condolences on X, saying: “I’m saddened to learn that a Canadian from Mississauga was among those lost. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of every victim.”

Among the victims of the tragic AI-171 Dreamliner crash were London-based couple Sunny Patel (39) and Monali Patel (38), who had strong ties to Gujarat. Monali came from a family directly connected to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister. Her great-grandfather, Naranbhai Motibhai Patel, was the brother of Jhaverba, Sardar Patel’s wife, originally from Gana village near Anand. “We informed Monali’s mother only on Saturday morning,” said Monali’s cousin Jignesh Patel, great-grandson of Chaturbhai Motibhai Patel, another brother of Sardar Patel’s wife. The couple had travelled to Anand after a short holiday in Thailand. They were originally scheduled to return to London on June 6 but had postponed their travel plans for unspecified reasons.

Abhinav Parihar, an artificial jewellery businessman from Bikaner and grandson of former Dungargarh MLA Kishna Ram Nai, was among the victims. He had recently opened a new office and workshop in Ahmedabad and was returning to London with plans to bring his wife and eight-year-old son back to India to settle and shift his business from the UK.

Among the victims of the Air India plane crash were 29-year-old Vaibhav Patel and his wife, 27-year-old Jinal Goswami, who was seven months pregnant. The couple, originally from Southampton and recently settled in Croydon, had travelled to Ahmedabad for Jinal’s baby shower.

Ashok and Shobhana Patel, a couple who had lived in the UK since 1978, tragically lost their lives in the Ahmedabad plane crash. Their son, Miten Patel, flew from London to identify his father’s body through DNA testing, receiving confirmation on Father’s Day. Just as he prepared to take his father’s remains home, a second call came — the 99th DNA match confirmed his mother, Shobhana. In a poignant twist, the couple, who had spent a lifetime together, were identified side by side — samples 98 and 99. “Even in death, my mother didn’t let my father return home alone,” Miten said.

There were twelve crew members aboard the ill-fated AI-171 flight — none made it home.

Captain Sumeet, 54, an experienced pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, was the son of an officer in India’s civil aviation authority. He was also the primary caregiver for his father, now in his 80s, and had spoken to him just before takeoff. His body was brought back to Mumbai for last rites.

Roshni Songhare, 26, a vibrant young flight attendant, was set to marry next year. Known as the heart of her household, she was also popular on social media, with over 73,000 Instagram followers. Her promising life was just taking off.

Maithili Patil, 24, a resident of Nhava village, had joined Air India two years ago. The daughter of an ONGC labour contractor, she had called her father minutes before takeoff, promising to ring again once she landed in London. That call never came.

Another flight attendant, Nganthoi Sharma from Manipur, was also among the victims. Her family kept trying her phone — the rings, signal, and internet connection offered a glimmer of hope. “She messaged us just before takeoff, saying, ‘I’m going to London. The flight will take off shortly. Maybe we won’t be able to talk for some time,’” recalled her relative K. Khenjita. No one imagined those would be her last words.

Deepak Pathak, 32, a cabin crew member from Badlapur, was not originally scheduled for this flight — he was on sick leave and rostered for a later London trip. But an urgent call from the airline on June 11 had him report for duty in Ahmedabad. “He was a dedicated employee... if only he had refused that call, he would still be here,” said his grieving family. His sisters travelled to Ahmedabad for DNA identification. Deepak lived with his parents and wife of four years in Katrap, Badlapur East.

Singson was part of the cabin crew on board Air India flight 171, her family confirmed. Speaking outside Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, her cousin T. Thanglingo Haokip told the BBC he had been trying, without success, to get updates about her. He added that Singson was the sole breadwinner for her family, supporting both her mother and brother, who were “wholly dependent on her.”

First Officer Clive Kunder, who joined Air India a few years ago, had logged over 1,100 hours of flight time. He trained in aircraft maintenance engineering at Bombay Flying Club before pursuing commercial pilot training in Florida, said the club’s chairman, Mihir Bhagwati. According to news reports, Kunder’s parents were visiting his sister in Australia when the crash occurred. They returned to Ahmedabad on Friday to join hundreds of grieving families awaiting identification of the victims.

Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani laid to rest with state honours

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who was aboard Air India flight 171, was laid to rest with full state honours in Rajkot. His body was identified three days after the crash, using DNA testing.

Gujarat observed a one-day state mourning. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and other leaders attended the funeral. 

Visiting the Rupani home in Rajkot, Amit Shah comforted the grieving family, assuring Anjaliben and Rushabh that “we are all with you in this moment of sorrow.”

Rupani’s body was flown from Ahmedabad to Rajkot via a special flight. From Hirasar airport, it was brought in a flower-decorated vehicle, adorned with blooms from Ooty—his favourite—to Prakash Society, his residence in Rajkot. Thousands of citizens gathered along the route to offer floral tributes and bid farewell to their beloved leader.

At the Rajkot home, the body was kept for public viewing. Political leaders, family, friends, and citizens paid their respects. A solemn procession followed through key city roads—Kalawad Road, Yagnik Road—to the Ramnathpara crematorium. Despite the rain, people stood silently, some weeping, as the procession passed by.

His final rites were conducted with full Vedic rituals. The Gujarat Police honoured him with a 21-gun salute—one of the highest marks of respect for a public servant. Dignitaries from across the state attended, including the Police Commissioner, MLAs, MPs, and senior officials.

A day of official mourning was observed across Gujarat on 16 June. The national flag was flown at half-mast at government buildings, including the Secretariat and Legislative Assembly. Relief coordination was led by the CMO, and special camps were set up at the Civil Hospital, SEOC, and FSL to assist victim families and expedite identification. Tata Sons, which manages Air India, announced full compensation to those affected by the crash.

Large prayer gatherings were held in tribute to the victims: in Rajkot at Race Course Ground on Tuesday, 17 June (3–6 PM); in Gandhinagar at Helipad Ground on Thursday, 19 June (9 AM–12 Noon); and at Koba Kamalam on Friday, 20 June (4–6 PM).

“Met the family of Shri Vijaybhai Rupani ji. It is unimaginable that he is no longer with us. I’ve known him for decades — we worked together shoulder to shoulder, even through the most challenging times,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X.

“Vijaybhai was humble, hardworking, and deeply committed to the Party’s ideology. From corporator to Rajya Sabha MP, Gujarat BJP President, Cabinet Minister, and Chief Minister, he served with distinction,” Modi added.

He recalled Rupani’s contributions to Gujarat’s growth, particularly in improving the state’s Ease of Living. “Will always cherish our interactions. My thoughts are with his family and friends. Om Shanti.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, calling it “hard to believe.” In a tribute on X, Shah wrote, “I worked with Vijaybhai for a long time. Whether as state president or chief minister, he fulfilled every responsibility with dedication. It is difficult to believe he is no longer with us.”

Shah remembered Rupani as a calm, disciplined leader whose loyalty to the party and commitment to Gujarat’s growth stood out.

Editor/Publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, CB Patel said, “TThe Air India plane crash has left me deeply shocked, especially as I knew several of the victims personally. But whether or not I knew them, my heart grieves for every passenger, crew member, and their families. Having flown the Ahmedabad–London route countless times over the years, I’ve always felt a personal connection to this service and have experienced occasional issues during my travels. This devastating crash brings back painful memories of the 1988 Indian Airlines Flight tragedy in Ahmedabad, where 133 lives were lost, including crew members. The echoes of that sorrow are still felt, and now, once again, we find ourselves mourning another avoidable tragedy.”

“Also, the untimely and tragic passing of Shri Vijaybhai Rupani has left me truly lost for words. I had the honour of knowing him personally and hosting him on several occasions, both in the UK and in India. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. He was not just a leader, he was a statesman, a man of vision, and a true son of Gujarat. This incident also raises serious concerns about the future of Air India. As our national airline, now under the stewardship of the Tata Group, a name that symbolises integrity and excellence, Air India must rise above this tragedy. While the management deserves sympathy during this time of sorrow, this must also serve as a wake-up call. Air travel today is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. And there can be no compromise when it comes to safety. Every effort must now be made to ensure that Air India meets the highest global standards of safety and service, worthy of a place among the world’s top five airlines,” he added.

It is reported that Rupani’s flight on June 12 was not his original plan. He had first booked to travel on May 19, then June 5, before finally rescheduling to June 12 — the ill-fated flight that crashed within a minute of takeoff.

A stalwart of Gujarat politics, Rupani began as a corporator in Rajkot in 1987, later serving as Mayor, Rajya Sabha MP, Gujarat BJP President, Cabinet Minister, and Chief Minister from 2016. He shared a close bond with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, forged during their early efforts to build the BJP in Gujarat.

Doctors, students and residents impacted by the crash
 The devastating crash sent emergency services scrambling through thick smoke and debris, leaving entire streets in shock and families shattered. Of the 242 people on board, only one survived. Dozens more were killed on the ground as the plane struck a densely populated residential area.

Among those shattered by the tragedy is the Patni family. Seventy-year-old Babibehen Babu Bhai Patni sits on the floor of her housing block, inconsolable. She mourns her 12-year-old grandson Akash, whose life was cut short when the plane came crashing down. The boy had been napping beneath a tree near their tea stall when the aircraft struck, engulfing him in flames. “All that’s left of him is ash,” she weeps. “My daughter is in ICU, her arm and leg badly burnt. My son is also injured. What will I do? He was just a child.”

Twenty-four-year-old Kajal Patni, Akash’s grief-stricken sister, waits under the punishing sun, replaying her brother’s final moments.

“He had gone to get lunch for my parents around 2pm,” she says. “Mum had come home for a quick shower, and he lay down for a nap. She was nearly back when the crash happened — a deafening blast, then thick black smoke. When she ran to him, everything was dark.” Tears stream down her face. “The authorities haven’t told me when I’ll see his body. I just want my brother back... I feel restless, suffocated. What will I tell my children, who always played with him?”
 Filmmaker Mahesh Kalawadia, also known as Mahesh Jirawala, has been missing since the crash of Air India flight AI-171. His phone last pinged about 700 metres from the crash site and switched off just a minute after takeoff. He last spoke to his wife at 1:14 pm, saying he was heading home after a meeting. His scooter and phone remain missing, and his family say he wouldn’t normally take that route, raising fears he may be among the ground victims. DNA samples have been submitted for identification.
 Inside the medical college hostel kitchen, 30-year-old Shahana Khatoon was cleaning pots when disaster struck. “I heard a huge explosion,” she recalls. “Everything went black with smoke. At first, I thought it was a storm — then people were shouting, ‘A plane has crashed! Run!’ Debris was everywhere. I was terrified.” She and a colleague escaped with the help of two nearby cafe-goers, both injured in the chaos. Now, she anxiously awaits news of her missing co-worker and the woman’s two-year-old granddaughter. “We’re still searching,” she says, voice trembling. Her husband, Kurban Ali, 35, had raced to the scene. “I was frantic. Police wouldn’t let me through. For hours, I didn’t know if my wife and daughter were alive.” It was only an hour later that Shahana managed to call him from safety.

The plane’s front section tore into Atulyam-11, housing medical students and doctors. The midsection scattered across a garden and road, while the tail and wheels smashed onto the doctors’ mess, where many had gathered for lunch.

At least 23 people on the ground; doctors, students, and family members — were killed. Among them: Drs Aaryan Rajput, Manav Bhadoo, Rakesh Deora, and Kajal Pradip Solanki, a pregnant doctor’s wife. Resident doctor Jay Prakash Chaudhary remains missing.

The crash came just minutes after the lunch break began.

“Had it been 10 minutes later, over 300 doctors would’ve been inside,” said intern Kushal Chauhan, who had just stepped out.

Dr Ramkrishna, who narrowly escaped, said, “A friend warned me about a low-flying plane. Seconds later — a blast, heat, fire, chaos. We pulled five bodies from the rubble.”

Dr Mohit Chavda, trapped inside, added: “Luggage and debris rained down. I sat frozen for 10 minutes before calling for help.”

Footage from residents showed thick black smoke engulfing the campus as survivors fled the blast zone.

Air India’s parent company, Tata Group, has pledged 10 million rupees (about £86,000) to each victim’s family, along with medical support for the injured and help to rebuild parts of the college.

The final ground death toll remains unconfirmed.

PM Modi visits Air India crash site, meets injured and families

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site of the Air India crash in Ahmedabad and later held a review meeting with Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel and senior officials. 

He also visited Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, where he met the sole survivor of the London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash, as well as those injured on the ground when the plane struck the BJ Medical College hostel.

British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, also met the Prime Minister during the visit. Modi later met the wife of former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, who was among the crash victims.

“We are all devastated by this tragedy. The sudden loss of so many lives is beyond words. Our condolences to the bereaved families. Om Shanti,” he posted on X.

Bereaved families find solace in shared grief

Vigils have been held across the UK and India to remember the victims of the Air India plane crash.

FCDO Minister Catherine West also visited the Indian High Commission in London to pay her respects to those affected. Taking X, Catherine wrote, “It was my solemn privelege to pay tribute to victims of the tragic Air India crash @HCI_London. My thoughts are with the many families in India and the UK affected by yesterday’s events. The FCDO continues to work all hours to support those who have contacted us for assistance.”

King Charles III broke with tradition at this year’s Trooping the Colour, pausing the age-old ceremony to honour the victims of Thursday’s Air India crash. In a rare gesture, last seen when Queen Elizabeth altered proceedings in 2017 after the Grenfell fire, the King requested a minute’s silence at Horse Guards Parade, with participants wearing black armbands. Buckingham Palace confirmed the change had been personally requested by the King “as a mark of respect for the lives lost, the grieving families, and the communities affected by this terrible tragedy.”

Jalaram Jyot Mandir in Sudbury held a Prarthana Sabha to honour those who lost their lives in the recent plane crash. The gathering drew a large number of devotees, community members, trustees, priests, and representatives from the National Council of Gujarati Organisations (NCGO), all united in grief and prayer. The tragedy struck close to home for the Mandir, which had connections to several victims, including former employees and devotees who lost family and friends in the crash.

A vigil for Renjitha Gopakumaran Nair was held at the Mountbatten Centre in Portsmouth during a sports day event organised by the Union of UK Malayalee Associations (UUKMA). Leena Furtado, a colleague from QA Hospital, described her as "kind and humble," calling her passing "the biggest loss." She added, “There are no words. Seeing her name among the victims was truly heart-breaking.”
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton (UHDB) and the NHS have expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of Dr Prateek Joshi and his family in the Air India crash. Dr Rajeev Singh, Consultant Radiologist and Clinical Director for Imaging at UHDB, paid tribute to his late colleague, calling him “a joyful, kind-hearted man, a devoted husband and father, and an exceptional radiologist.” Dr Singh added, “Prateek brought positivity and humour to every room. Since moving to Derby from India in 2021, he quickly became a cherished colleague, often sharing stories about his new love for fish and chips and walking in the Peak District. He touched many lives, both professionally and personally.”

BAPS volunteers supported local authorities at the crash site and Ahmedabad Civil Hospital by providing food and lemon drinks to rescue teams, police, medical staff, and victims' families. British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, visited BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, offering prayers and paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the Air India tragedy.

Hundreds of local residents gathered at The Lotus in Chislehurst this weekend to pray for the victims of the devastating Air India crash. The tragedy struck last Thursday when a flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after take-off, killing 241 passengers and crew, along with 29 local residents on the ground, including four medical students. At the vigil, organised by the Yog Foundation, young children led prayers, names of the victims were read aloud, and a minute’s silence was observed. Many attending families were originally from Ahmedabad and often flew the same route. The evening ended with an aarti — a ritual of light and song, as prayers were offered for the strength and healing of grieving families.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said staff in both the UK and India are working around the clock to support the families and loved ones affected by the crash. A reception centre has been set up at the Ummed Hotel near Ahmedabad airport, with a dedicated helpline for families and friends of British nationals: 020 7008 5000 (UK) or +91 (11) 2419 2100 (India). In-person consular staff are also on hand to assist families, including at local hospitals.

Additionally, the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch has deployed a team to support the Indian-led investigation, alongside UK forensic experts assisting the consular response.
Following the tragic Ahmedabad–London plane crash, Go Dharmic’s team in Ahmedabad quickly responded after seeing smoke rise near the medical college. Volunteers rushed to the scene to assist victims and bystanders, offering first aid, organising a blood donation drive, and helping emergency services manage traffic and transport the deceased with dignity.

With many students in the nearby area injured, the team provided critical on-ground support. In solidarity with the grieving families, Go Dharmic also held a special food distribution in the UK and India on Sunday, June 15, to honour those who lost their lives — continuing their mission of compassion and service.

Founder of Go Dharmic, Hanuman Dass shared,"In moments of deep tragedy, our dharma calls us to serve. The love and compassion shown by our volunteers in Ahmedabad reflect the spirit of humanity that binds us all. We will honour the memory of those lost by continuing to serve and uplift others through love in action." Go Dharmic will continue to offer ongoing humanitarian support, including food relief, emotional support, and volunteer mobilisation as needed.

Tributes paid to AI-171 victims at London vigil
Candles were lit around Jawaharlal Nehru’s statue as the UK's Indian community gathered to honour victims of the Air India plane crash.

About 150 people attended the multi-faith vigil outside the Indian High Commission in Holborn, with many travelling from Leicester and Bradford. Flowers, tealights, and photos of the victims surrounded the statue of Nehru, India’s first prime minister.

A commemorative ceremony, hosted by the Indian High Commission, was attended by Deputy PM Angela Rayner, Canadian High Commissioner Ralph Goodale, MPs Alan Gemmell and Ruth Cadbury, former MP Virendra Sharma, and community members.

Faith leaders across religions offered prayers, reflecting unity and hope amid grief.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner addressed the gathering with a message of condolence and solidarity following the Air India tragedy. “I first of all apologise that many of my colleagues could not be here — they send their heartfelt condolences to everyone who lost someone last Thursday,” she said. “At times like this, it can be hard to know how to respond. I thank the faith leaders for their prayers and comfort. Coming together like this is one important way we show support.”

Rayner also praised the efforts of officials: “I’d like to thank colleagues working closely with families and the Indian authorities, the accident investigators from both countries, and the police Family Liaison Officers delivering the worst news imaginable.”

Reflecting on the close ties between the UK and India, she added: “What has struck me over the last few days is that while the UK and India may be separated by distance, in the ways that really count, we are still very, very close.”

“We mark our bond today in a simple and profound way: we grieve together. The UK is with you and will continue to support you.”

Canadian High Commissioner Ralph Goodale offered a heartfelt tribute: “On behalf of Canada and all Canadians, we share the pain and anguish felt today across India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. This is a terrible tragedy that unites us in grief and compassion.”

He praised the tireless efforts of consular officers and emergency responders and honoured Canadian passenger Nirali Suresh Kumar Patel, “a talented dentist, devoted spouse, mother, friend, and community volunteer, deeply loved and respected.”

“To her family, friends, and all those who lost loved ones on Flight AI-171, we extend our deepest sympathy and hope their memory remains a lasting blessing.”

MP Ruth Cadbury said, “We in Hounslow were devastated to lose two community members in this tragedy. As the Deputy PM said, this is not just your loss, but ours too. People were travelling for many reasons — holidays, family visits, new beginnings — reminding us why we travel and who we are. I’m grateful to everyone in India, the UK, and beyond supporting families and working in such difficult circumstances.”

MP Alan Gemmell added, “I extend my deepest condolences to all affected. I thank the High Commissioner and Foreign Office teams for their tireless efforts. During my time in India, I was inspired by the ambition of students and entrepreneurs — lives and futures tragically lost in this flight, including our friend, former Chief Minister Rupani.”

Leaders unite in support
Political and community leaders across the UK are coming together to support grieving families and communities in the wake of the tragic Air India Flight crash. In this time of collective mourning, they are offering words of condolence, organising community gatherings, and pledging continued support to those affected.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has a crisis team on standby in Delhi and in London, the foreign secretary David Lammy said. 'My thoughts, and I’m sure those of the entire house, are with those who’ve been affected by the tragic plane crash in India this morning. We know that British nationals were on board and I can confirm that the FCDO is working urgently with local authorities to support British nationals and their families,’ he added. 

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash in the city of Ahmedabad. We are reaching out to temples and schools during this devastating time. Today, I will be holding a gathering at the Brent Association, and tomorrow at Kings Street Temple, there will be a community-wide event for Brent residents to come together in mourning. When a tragedy of this magnitude occurs, it is only right that we acknowledge the collective trauma and offer space for the community to grieve and support one another.”

Trupti Patel, President of the Hindu Forum of Britain, expressed deep condolences to the families affected by the Air India Flight AI171 tragedy, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the departed souls and their loved ones during this painful time. We also pray for the survivors and thank the emergency teams involved.”

She added, “We pray the departed attain ‘moksha’ and their families find strength. The Hindu Forum remains committed to supporting relief efforts, especially recognising the vital work of SEWA organisations and NGOs in Gujarat. Let this be a time of unity, compassion, and remembrance.”

The National Council of Gujarati Organisations UK (NCGO UK) is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic Air India crash today on the flight from Ahmedabad to London. Vimalji Odedra, President of NCGO UK, said, “Our entire community is mourning. We are devastated by the tragic loss of life and stand with the grieving families at this most difficult time. As a community, we will continue to offer strength, unity, and support wherever it is needed.”

Krishna Pujara, Vice President of NCGO UK, added, “This is a dark and tragic day for our community. As we process this heartbreaking loss, we stand in unity with the families of the victims. May they find strength and peace during this unimaginable time.”
Cllr Anjana Patel, the newly elected mayor of Harrow, shared her personal connection to the Air India tragedy. Addressing a congregation, she recounted how Harrow resident Arjun Patoliya, 37, had flown to India to scatter his late wife Bharti Patel’s ashes—she had died of cancer just three weeks earlier. Tragically, he perished on the return flight, leaving behind two young daughters now orphaned.

“I really pray those little girls will be well looked after by all of us,” Patel said, as the crowd gasped.

The Mayor, whose own family is from Gujarat, also revealed she had lost a relative in the crash. Speaking later to ‘The Telegraph’, she reflected: “Every life lost matters. But when it touches someone close to you, it breaks your heart even more.”

Founder and Chairman of India Global Forum, Manoj Ladwa said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those lost and all affected. We commend the tireless efforts of emergency services and local authorities in managing this devastating situation. The passengers on board, spanning generations and professions, embodied the living bridge between the UK and India. This tragedy reminds us of the human bonds that unite our nations. We are already seeing the UK and India standing together in solidarity, offering technical, logistical, and moral support. In times of sorrow, our countries instinctively reach out to one another. As we gather for UK-India Week, we will honour those lost and reaffirm our commitment to deepening the ties between our peoples. May their memory inspire us to build a more compassionate and connected world.”

India’s deadliest air disasters that changed aviation safety

India has witnessed a series of devastating air disasters that not only shook the nation but also led to significant improvements in aviation safety protocols. In 2020, Air India Express Flight 1344 crashed while landing in Kozhikode during heavy rain, skidding off the runway and killing 21 people. A decade earlier, in 2010, Flight 812 overshot the runway in Mangaluru and plunged into a gorge, claiming 158 lives. In 2000, Alliance Air Flight 7412 crashed into a crowded neighbourhood in Patna while attempting to land, resulting in 60 deaths.

One of the deadliest air disasters in Indian history was the 1996 mid-air collision near Charkhi Dadri between Saudi Arabian Airlines and Kazakhstan Airlines, which killed all 349 people onboard due to a communication error. Other major tragedies include a 1993 crash in Maharashtra that killed 55 people; a 1991 crash near Imphal that took 69 lives; and the 1990 crash of Indian Airlines Flight 605 in Bangalore, which killed 92 out of 146 onboard. In 1988, an Indian Airlines flight crashed while approaching Ahmedabad, killing 133 people.

Earlier still, in 1978, a Dubai-bound Air India flight plunged into the Arabian Sea shortly after take-off from Mumbai, killing all 213 passengers and crew. In 1977, an Indian Airlines Boeing 737-200 struck high-tension wires while landing in Delhi during bad weather, killing 48 people

Strange coincidences emerge after Air India crash

In the aftermath of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, eerie stories and strange coincidences have captured public attention.

One remarkable tale involves two plane crash survivors, separated by nearly three decades, who shared the same seat—11A. Thai actor and singer James Ruangsak Loychusak, now 47, survived a 1998 Thai Airways crash while seated in 11A. He was stunned to learn that the sole survivor of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash, British-Indian passenger Viswash Kumar Ramesh, was also seated in 11A. “Survivor of a plane crash in India. He sat in the same seat as me. 11A,” Loychusak posted on Facebook. While the aircraft types were different—Thai Airways used an Airbus A310, and Air India a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—the coincidence struck many as uncanny.

Another oddity surrounds former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani’s long-held attachment to the number 1206, which he had used on all his personal vehicles for years. The number now chillingly mirrors the date of the crash—June 12 (12/6)—marking the day of one of India’s worst aviation disasters. In Rajkot, residents and journalists recalled how Rupani’s scooters and cars always bore the number 1206, now forever linked to this tragic event.

Dreamliner disaster likely to raise global safety concerns

An Air India flight bound for London Gatwick took off from Ahmedabad at 1:38 p.m. last Thursday with 242 people on board. Moments later, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a densely populated residential area, erupting into flames.

Preliminary findings suggest the aircraft suffered significantly reduced thrust from its General Electric GEnx engines, climbing no higher than 450ft before impact, according to video footage and initial reports from Indian authorities.

This has shifted early attention away from the plane’s wing flaps and landing gear configuration to a potential double engine power loss—an extremely rare event. On Sunday, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered urgent inspections of fuel systems, electronic engine controls, and related components across the country’s 787 fleet.

“There was something terribly wrong with this 787 jet, and we need to find out really quickly because there are a thousand of these operating today,” said Juan Browne, an American airlines Boeing pilot and respected aviation commentator. 

Authorities confirmed that the high-tech Dreamliner used nearly the entire 3,500m runway—far more than required under the hot conditions and heavy load of the day. Video showed dust kicked up beyond the runway’s end, confirming both engines were producing some thrust during takeoff. 

In a chilling emergency call seconds after take-off, the co-pilot radioed: “Thrust not achieved … falling … Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!”

Further signs of severe power loss came from video showing the deployment of the aircraft’s ram air turbine (RAT)—a small propeller that extends automatically to generate minimal electrical and hydraulic power in the event of a complete loss.

“This clearly indicates dual engine failure,” said Capt. Steve Scheibner, a Boeing 777 pilot with American Airlines. “The RAT is deployed—you can hear it. It’s not meant to provide enough power for a climb, only to keep basic systems alive during a descent.”

The fact that the landing gear remained extended also points to a serious power problem, as the RAT cannot power retraction.

Investigators are now analysing flight recorders and wreckage to determine the root cause—ranging from potential fuel contamination to failure in the engines’ electronic controls. A bird strike has been ruled out.

“We have no idea why both engines on a 787 would flame out right after takeoff,” Scheibner added.

This marks the first-ever crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its 2011 debut. Known for its fuel efficiency and quiet performance, the 787 has had a strong safety record—although Boeing has been under renewed scrutiny following issues with its 737 Max jets and Dreamliner battery problems.

The tragedy further compounds pressure on the embattled aircraft maker, already facing investigations and whistleblower reports. Air India, which has operated Dreamliners since 2012, had not recorded a major accident since a 2020 runway crash.

Both the UK and Indian governments are assisting victims’ families as DNA identification of remains continues. Flights from Ahmedabad resumed within hours of the crash.

Aviation experts stress that flying remains one of the safest ways to travel—though the disaster is expected to heighten scrutiny on Boeing’s safety record, experts do not foresee a long-term erosion in passenger confidence.

Air India’s reputation has long been "extremely poor," despite clearance from European and US regulators. Previous incidents include window panels detaching mid-flight and passenger complaints about filthy interiors. In 2018, turbulence on a short Amritsar–Delhi flight caused a window panel to dislodge, triggering panic among 240 passengers. A crew member bravely secured the panel as oxygen masks deployed and several passengers sustained minor injuries.

Following Tata Group’s takeover last year, a Dubai-based travel influencer reviewed a 787-8 Dreamliner flight. While praising the smooth check-in, friendly crew, and improved food, the vlogger highlighted ongoing problems: broken entertainment systems, torn seat cushions, stained tray tables, outdated interiors, and filthy restrooms lacking basic amenities. He urged Air India to refurbish aging aircraft.

In April, View From The Wing reported a business-class passenger on a Chicago–Delhi flight was told her seat wouldn’t recline due to a "technical issue" and was pressured to accept two economy seats instead—without the option for a refund. Other business- and first-class passengers also faced broken seats, while crew members were seen occupying curtained-off cabin seats mid-flight.




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