*Air India confirms 241 people onboard were killed in flight AI171 crash, one survivor* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaKnCI70wajrXc63FC0w Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for London, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India, on Thursday June 12, 2025. The disaster claimed the lives of 241 people, with only one survivor. The incident has prompted a major investigation into the cause of the crash and raised concerns about the Boeing 787 aircraft. Catastrophic Crash Details Air India Flight AI171 departed Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM local time. Just 30 seconds after takeoff, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, experienced a loud noise before crashing into a residential area southwest of the airport. The aircraft reached a maximum altitude of only 625 feet before losing height. Surveillance footage captured the moment the plane went down, showing its landing gear still extended and a subsequent ball of flames. Sole Survivor’s Account Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British national of Indian origin, was the sole survivor of the crash. He was found in seat 11A and is currently recovering in a hospital from chest injuries and psychological trauma. Ramesh recounted hearing a loud noise shortly after takeoff before the plane crashed. He expressed shock and confusion about his survival, stating he had “no idea how I exited the plane.” Tragically, his brother, who was also on the flight, did not survive. Investigation Underway India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a formal investigation into the crash, in line with international protocols. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is sending a team of investigators to assist, given that the aircraft was American-manufactured. The plane, registered VT-ANB (MSN 36279), was an 11.5-year-old Boeing 787-8 delivered to Air India in January 2014. It had accumulated over 41,000 flying hours. Global Reactions and Support Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the tragedy as “heartbreaking beyond words” and assured that officials are working to assist those affected. King Charles III and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed their condolences, noting the presence of many British nationals on board. Air India confirmed the nationalities of those on board: 169 Indian, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. Tata Group, a co-owner of Air India, pledged financial support of 1 crore rupees (approximately $117,000) to the families of the victims and committed to covering medical expenses for the injured. They also vowed to support the rebuilding of the B.J. Medical College hostel, which the plane crashed into. Boeing’s shares saw a significant drop following the incident, marking the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Key Takeaways Air India Flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India, on June 12, 2025. 241 fatalities were confirmed, with only one survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. The aircraft was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, prompting an investigation by Indian authorities and assistance from the NTSB. The crash site included a residential area and a medical college hostel, resulting in casualties on the ground. Global leaders and organizations have offered condolences and support to the victims and their families. - Nehanda Radio