Two young students from Gujarat, who were on their way to pursue higher education in London, were among the 241 victims of the tragic Air India AI-171 plane crash that occurred shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday.
One of the victims, a young woman from Mehsana, had just completed her college education and was set to begin a new chapter in London. Her relative, Suresh Khatik, said the family had taken out loans to finance her studies abroad.
“After college, she stayed with us. Then she expressed her desire to study in London. We supported her dreams, even taking loans. Her DNA sample has been taken,” Khatik told reporters.
Another victim, Sanket Goswami, also a resident of Mehsana, was similarly on his way to the UK for higher studies. A relative remembered Sanket as an enthusiastic young man with big ambitions.
“My nephew lost his only son, Sanket. He was full of energy and had a bright future ahead. He also leaves behind a younger sister,” the family member said.
The AI-171 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed into a medical college complex in Meghaninagar shortly after take-off. Only one person out of 242 survived the horrific accident.
The aircraft was commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had logged 1,100 flying hours.
A formal probe has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Additionally, the United States’ National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is sending a team of investigators to assist in the crash investigation.
The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased passenger. A dedicated helpline has been set up for affected families: 1800 5691 444 (India) and +91 8062779200 (International).
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital to meet the lone survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, and other injured passengers. He also inspected the crash site and held a review meeting with officials at the Ahmedabad airport to assess the situation.
