The sole survivor of the devastating Air India plane crash, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, has spoken publicly for the first time since the tragedy, describing his escape as a “miracle” but revealing that survival has come with deep pain and loss.
The Air India Flight AI-177, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner traveling from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after take-off on June 12, 2025, killing all 241 passengers and crew on board — except Ramesh, a 32-year-old British national seated in row 11A, next to an emergency exit.
A Miraculous Escape
Ramesh recalls hearing a loud explosion moments after take-off before the aircraft broke apart mid-air.
“When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran,” he told investigators.
Authorities say Ramesh managed to jump through a broken emergency exit door just before the burning fuselage slammed into a nearby hostel building in Ahmedabad. His quick reaction — and his seat position — are believed to have saved his life.
He suffered several burns and fractures but was found conscious among the debris by rescue workers. Doctors have described his survival as “nothing short of miraculous.”
“I Lost Everything”
Ramesh revealed that his older brother, Ajay Kumar, was also aboard the flight and is among the deceased.
“God gave me life but took all my happiness. I lost my brother — we were flying home together. I don’t know why I lived,” he said tearfully in an interview with Indian media.
The survivor says he continues to battle nightmares and survivor’s guilt. “I see the crash every time I close my eyes,” he said. “It doesn’t feel like I survived. It feels like I’m still there.”
What Caused the Crash?
Preliminary findings from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) revealed that both engine fuel cut-off switches had been moved just moments after take-off, stopping fuel supply to the engines. Investigators are still probing whether this was due to human error, mechanical failure, or a software malfunction.
The crash has prompted renewed scrutiny of Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner safety protocols, as this marks the first fatal incident involving the aircraft type since it entered commercial service.
Widespread Tragedy
The crash claimed the lives of 169 Indian nationals, 52 British citizens, and several other foreign passengers. At least 19 people on the ground were also killed when the aircraft crashed into a school hostel, igniting a massive fire that engulfed nearby homes.
Families across India and the UK have been holding vigils for the victims, while Air India has pledged full cooperation with international investigators.
A Nation in Mourning
India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called the tragedy “a dark day for Indian aviation” and vowed that “no stone will be left unturned” to uncover the cause of the crash. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed condolences, offering UK support in the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, Ramesh has become a symbol of both hope and heartbreak. As he recovers from his physical injuries, he says his true healing will only begin once answers are found.
“I lived through something no one should ever experience. I hope the truth comes out — for my brother, and for everyone who didn’t make it.”