Viswash Kumar Ramesh, 38, was the sole survivor of the devastating crash of Air India Flight 171, which killed 241 people, including his brother Ajay. The London-based British national was returning from Ahmedabad when the plane crashed minutes after takeoff on June 12, 2025. Moments after escaping the wreckage, Viswash called his family, saying, “Our plane crashed. I have no idea how I got outside.” He later told reporters, “I don’t know how I’m alive.”
At Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, doctors confirmed Viswash had multiple injuries but was stable. His cousin and younger brother shared that he had been in shock and couldn’t find Ajay or any other passengers. He was seated in 11A, near the left wing, a reinforced section of the aircraft, which experts believe may have helped him survive. Video footage showed him limping from the crash site, dazed but alive.
The crash site, embedded in a medical hostel wall, was the scene of chaos as families searched for loved ones. Air India confirmed the flight had 230 passengers and 12 crew, including 53 British nationals. Prime Minister Modi visited Viswash in the hospital, and Air India CEO Campbell Wilson addressed the public, vowing support and transparency. A hotline was activated for updates.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla also issued a statement of condolence. As investigators continue to examine the wreckage, Viswash’s survival is being hailed as a miracle. Meanwhile, the world mourns the loss of the many lives tragically cut short that day.