A man has miraculously survived the Air India crash that claimed the lives of over 200 people, according to Indian news agency ANI.
Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed that the lone survivor was seated in 11A on the London-bound Boeing 787-8. The flight manifest identified the occupant of that seat as British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh.
Indian media outlets reported speaking with Mr. Ramesh at the hospital, where he recounted: “About thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise, and then the plane crashed. It all happened so fast.” He also reportedly shared his boarding pass, confirming his identity and seat number.
Commissioner Malik said the survivor remains hospitalised and is receiving medical treatment.
According to Air India, the flight was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian. The aircraft crashed into residential quarters used by medical staff less than a minute after take-off.
In a statement, King Charles and Queen Camilla expressed their shock and sorrow over the incident:
“We are desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones.”
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has activated crisis response teams in both India and the UK. Addressing Parliament, he said:
“We know that British nationals were on board. I can confirm that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is working urgently with local authorities to support British citizens and their families, and has mobilised crisis teams in Delhi and London.”
