An Air India flight en route to London Gatwick from Ahmedabad crashed shortly after take-off, claiming nearly all lives onboard. Among the victims are families from the UK and local passengers. Surviving passenger recounts his ordeal, as authorities investigate the crash's causes.
Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight AI171 Crash Claims Lives

Tragedy Strikes: Air India Flight AI171 Crash Claims Lives
The recent crash of Air India flight AI171 has resulted in a tragic loss of life, including multiple British and Indian nationals, with survivors recounting harrowing experiences.
The recent crash of Air India flight AI171, which took off from Ahmedabad, India, and was headed for London Gatwick Airport, has resulted in a devastating loss of life. The airline confirmed that nearly all 242 individuals onboard perished in the incident, which included a mix of nationalities: 169 Indian citizens, 53 Britons, 7 from Portugal, and one Canadian. There are concerns that additional fatalities may have occurred on the ground due to the densely populated area surrounding the crash site.
Among the few survivors is Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British national who received treatment in the hospital for his injuries. The tragedy has hit hard, particularly for families of the deceased.
The Nanabawa family, known to reside in Gloucester, is one of the confirmed casualties. Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their daughter Sara Nanabawa were all onboard. A statement from the Gloucester Muslim Society expressed condolences and highlighted the overwhelming support from international communities during this painful time.
Adam and Hasina Taju, both in their seventies, were returning from Ahmedabad with their son-in-law, Altafhusen Patel. Their granddaughter, Ammaarah Taju, expressed profound shock and sorrow upon hearing the news.
Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek, a married couple involved in the spiritual wellness industry in London, were also on the flight. They had shared moments of excitement on social media just before their departure from Ahmedabad airport.
Ajay Kumar Ramesh was another passenger who tragically lost his life; he flew alongside his brother, Vishwashkumar, who survived. Vishwashkumar reached out to family to reassure them of his safety while expressing uncertainty about his brother's fate.
Prominent individuals included in the fatalities were Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, whose death was confirmed by India's civil aviation minister.
Additionally, Singson, a cabin crew member, is reported missing, with her family desperately trying to obtain information regarding her condition. Family members highlighted that she was the primary breadwinner, with dependents relying on her support.
As investigations into the crash continue, speculations arise regarding the cause of this tragic incident, leaving a community and a nation in mourning.