12th June was a deeply tragic day not just for Ahmedabad but for the entire nation, as Air India’s Flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff. The plane barely managed to lift off before it nosedived and collided with a doctor’s mess building. A total of 242 people were onboard, including pilots and crew members.
While the majority of passengers sadly lost their lives in the crash, one passenger miraculously survived. His survival has reminded many of the old saying: “Jako rakhe saiyan, maar sake na koi” — meaning, “No one can harm the one protected by the divine.” Since then, the seat he was in — Seat 11A — has drawn a lot of attention.
The Flight Was Bound for London
The aircraft involved in the crash was an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, London. The flight carried 242 people onboard, including 10 crew members and 2 pilots. Out of all the passengers, only one man survived — Ramesh Vishwas.
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Ramesh Vishwas Was Sitting in Seat 11A
Ramesh Vishwas, a 40-year-old British citizen, was seated in 11A on the ill-fated flight. In a video that surfaced later, Ramesh was seen walking with minor injuries and a slight limp, but alive — a rare and miraculous escape.
Where Is Seat 11A on the Air India 787-8 Dreamliner?
In Air India’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, the front section of the aircraft is occupied by Business Class, followed by Economy Class.
Seat 11A is a window seat in the very first row of Economy Class — right behind Business Class. This position may have contributed to cushioning the impact slightly, aiding in Ramesh’s survival.
Ramesh was traveling with his brother, who was also onboard the flight. As of now, there is no confirmed information about his brother’s fate.
This story of survival amidst a devastating tragedy continues to stir emotions and raise questions — about fate, safety, and the sheer unpredictability of life.