The Lucky Seat 11A: How One Man Cheated Death in the Air India Flight AI171 Disaster | Video
Ahmedabad, India – In a tragic aviation disaster, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. The aircraft, bound for London Gatwick, collided with a nearby doctors’ hostel, resulting in a devastating fire. Amid the wreckage, one survivor was found—Ramesh Viswashkumar, seated in 11A, who miraculously escaped by jumping from the plane.
Miracle Survivor: Ramesh Viswashkumar of Seat 11A
Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik confirmed that Ramesh Viswashkumar, the sole survivor of the crash, was seated in 11A. He was rushed to the hospital and is currently undergoing treatment. Authorities have not yet released an official death toll, but fears remain high as the plane crashed into a residential area, potentially increasing casualties.
Ramesh Vishwakumar is only one survivor of the tragic plane crash.
— Ankur Singh (@iAnkurSingh) June 12, 2025
He was on seat 11A (Emergency Exit)
Somehow managed to jump out of plane at the right time. pic.twitter.com/qFvYZYacFR
Jaipal Singh Rathore, Joint Commissioner of Police, Ahmedabad, stated, “After takeoff, the plane crashed into a building, which is a doctors’ hostel near the airport perimeter.” Heavy black smoke billowed from the crash site, hindering initial rescue efforts.
So where exactly was seat 11A located on the aircraft?
Tata Group Announces Rs 1 Crore Compensation for Victims’ Families
In the wake of the tragedy, Tata Group, the parent company of Air India, announced financial support for the victims. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, stated:
“Tata Group will provide Rs 1 crore to the families of each person who lost their life in this tragedy. We will also cover the medical expenses of the injured and ensure they receive all necessary care. Additionally, we will support the rebuilding of BJ Medical’s hostel.”
Flight Details and International Passengers
The ill-fated Air India Flight AI171 had 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board, including:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British nationals
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
The flight, commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 flight hours) and First Officer Clive Kundar (1,100 flight hours), made a Mayday call before losing contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC).
Emergency Response and Helpline Numbers
The Gujarat government deployed three NDRF teams (90 personnel) to assist in rescue operations. Authorities have also issued emergency helpline numbers:
- Air India Passenger Helpline: 1800 5691 444
- Ahmedabad Police Emergency: 07925620359
As investigations continue, the aviation community mourns one of India’s deadliest air disasters, with hopes pinned on survivor Ramesh Viswashkumar’s recovery.
