The grief is palpable as Pushkaraj Sabharwal, the father of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, pilot of the Air India flight AI-171 that tragically crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12th, mourns the loss of his son. Visuals show Mr. Sabharwal, his eyes filled with tears, paying an emotional tribute to Sumeet outside their residence in Powai, Mumbai. The mortal remains of Captain Sabharwal were brought to Mumbai where final rites were held.
Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, 55, was a highly experienced pilot with over 8,200 hours of flying experience. He was known among his colleagues as one of Air India's most seasoned 787 commanders, remembered for his calm leadership and decades of safe flying. Beyond his professional life, Sumeet was a devoted son. He resided with his father and was his primary caregiver.
Just days before the tragic crash, Sumeet had expressed his desire to retire early to dedicate his time to caring for his ailing father. According to a family friend, Sumeet had spoken to his father, Pushkaraj, about wanting to leave flying and come home to care for him. Overwhelmed with emotion, Pushkaraj was speechless, his eyes filled with tears at the prospect of having his son by his side.
The Air India flight AI-171, bound for London's Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, resulting in the loss of 241 lives. In the wake of the disaster, local residents have hailed Captain Sabharwal as a hero. Reports indicate that in the final moments, Sumeet skillfully diverted the crashing aircraft away from residential buildings, potentially saving countless lives. Eighteen families residing in a three-story building beneath the flight path are convinced that Captain Sabharwal's actions prevented a far greater catastrophe.
The airline posted a moving tribute to Captain Sabharwal, acknowledging him as one of their most experienced commanders. The tribute also honored First Officer Clive Kunder, 26, from Mangaluru, who was also among the deceased. Furthermore, the airline recognized the twelve Air India crew members who lost their lives, including eight women.
The impact of the crash has rippled through the aviation community and beyond. The Sabharwal family has deep roots in the aviation industry. Sumeet’s father retired from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and his two nephews are also pilots. Neighbors recall Sumeet's dedication to his father, noting that he would always ask them to keep an eye on him whenever he was flying.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the focus remains on honoring the lives lost and supporting the grieving families. The final rites for Captain Sumeet Sabharwal were held in Mumbai, with his father, Pushkaraj, offering a final, tearful tribute to his beloved son.
