Investigations are underway following the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The London-bound flight crashed into a residential area, specifically the BJ Medical College building, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Initial reports confirm 241 fatalities out of the 242 people on board. Sadly, there are fears the number of people killed on the ground could rise. At least five medical students were killed and about 50 injured.
Authorities are meticulously examining the crash site to determine the cause of the accident. Aviation experts from both India and abroad are involved in the investigation, with a focus on analyzing the aircraft's black box recorders to gather crucial flight data and cockpit voice recordings. The investigation aims to uncover any mechanical failures, human error, or external factors that may have contributed to the disaster.
Amidst the ongoing investigation, the identities of some of the victims have begun to emerge, with a particular focus on the British nationals who were on board. Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, 40, is believed to be the sole survivor of the crash. He was in seat 11A, next to one of the aircraft's emergency exits. Speaking outside the family home in Leicester, his brother, Nayan Kumar Ramesh, 27, said: “We were just shocked as soon as we heard it. “I last spoke to him yesterday morning. We're devastated, just devastated. “He said, 'I have no idea how I exited the plane'.”
The crash has claimed the lives of several other British citizens, including Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter Sara, from Gloucester. Abdullah Samad, the headteacher of Sara's primary school, poignantly described her as a "ray of sunshine" who "lit up the classroom." The couple was known for their extensive charity work and generosity, including fundraising for humanitarian efforts in Gaza and providing medical care to underprivileged individuals in India.
Another British couple, Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek, who ran a spiritual wellness center, were also among those killed in the crash. Fiongal Greenlaw-Meek had previously appeared on ITV's "This Morning," where he discussed auras, leaving a lasting impression with his "vibrancy" and "enthusiasm". Martin Frizell, former editor of the show, expressed his sadness in an Instagram post, remembering Fiongal's passion and ability to connect with people.
The news of the Air India crash has sent shockwaves across communities in the UK and India. Families and friends of the victims are grappling with unimaginable grief, and support is being offered by community groups and religious organizations. The Gloucester Muslim Community extended their "sincere and deepest condolences" to the family of Akeel Nanabawa, Hannaa Vorajee, and Sara, offering prayers and solidarity during this difficult time.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are working to provide support to the affected families and ensure that the remains of the victims are identified and returned to their loved ones. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the need for continuous improvements in aircraft maintenance and operational procedures. The world mourns the loss of life in this tragic event, and the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the crash and preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.
