Seat 11A: The Unlikely Lifesaver in the Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh: The Sole Survivor
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, who emerged as the only survivor from the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, occupied seat 11A. This particular seat may have played a crucial role in preserving his life, potentially making it a popular choice among future travelers. However, numerous discussions and reports indicate that such seats are typically not favored by passengers. The main reason for this aversion is that seat 11A is located in the middle of the aircraft, which many travelers prefer to avoid.
Why Seat 11A is Often Avoided
According to a report from a media outlet last year, flight attendants noted that passengers frequently shy away from selecting seats 11A and 11F due to their central position in the plane, which results in delayed deboarding. Many travelers who prioritize quick exits tend to steer clear of these seats. Additionally, seat 11A can obstruct views because of its proximity to the wing, and in some aircraft, it lacks a window altogether. Ramesh was seated in 11A on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner that tragically crashed. He is a British national traveling to reunite with his family, accompanied by his 45-year-old brother, who was seated elsewhere.
Details of the Incident
The unfortunate Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday resulted in the deaths of 241 individuals, including both passengers and crew. Out of the 242 people on board, only one survived. The flight AI-171, destined for London, took off at 1:17 PM but began its descent shortly after. The aircraft crashed into BJ Medical College and Hospital, leading to additional casualties on the ground. Air India confirmed the fatalities, with Ramesh being the sole survivor, along with several injured, including medical students, who are currently receiving care at Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad.
Survivor's Condition and Investigation
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, the only survivor of the AI-171 crash, is a British citizen with roots in Daman and Diu. He is currently hospitalized in a secure room at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, ensuring his privacy and safety. Ramesh suffered injuries to his chest, eyes, and feet. He recounted that approximately 30 seconds after takeoff, a loud noise preceded the crash. While the cause of the incident remains under investigation, videos show the pilot issuing Mayday calls to air traffic control immediately after takeoff. Reports suggest that the aircraft's landing gear was still deployed during its descent, with preliminary theories pointing to engine failure or a bird strike as potential causes.
Significance of the Dreamliner Incident
This incident marks the first involvement of the Dreamliner series in such a tragedy, a model typically regarded as safe due to its advanced flying capabilities. This crash follows a previous Air India incident in 2020, where an Air India Express plane broke apart upon landing, marking another significant event in the airline's history.