A British citizen, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, has emerged as the lone survivor of a devastating Air India plane crash that claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members.
According to the BBC, the aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after take-off on Tuesday near the airport in Ahmedabad, a city in western India.
It was en route to London Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom, carrying a total of 242 people on board.
Authorities confirmed that Ramesh, who was seated in 11A, survived the crash and is currently receiving treatment in hospital.
“He is in stable condition and under close medical supervision,” said GS Malik, Police Commissioner of Ahmedabad, while addressing the media on Thursday.
Recounting the terrifying moment, Ramesh reportedly told emergency responders: “Thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed. It all happened so quickly.”
The incident has prompted swift action from both Indian and British aviation authorities.
The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch has confirmed it is supporting the Indian-led investigation into the crash.
In a statement, the AAIB said: “We are deploying a multidisciplinary investigation team to India to support the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic accident.”
Air India has also begun mobilising support efforts for the families of those on board.
The airline announced it will operate two special relief flights to Ahmedabad to assist next of kin and staff.
“Relatives of passengers in Delhi and Mumbai can reach out through our hotline 1800 5691 444. International callers can use +91 8062779200,” the airline stated.
