The only survivor of the Air India plane crash that claimed 260 lives has urged authorities to provide honesty, transparency and answers one year after the incident.
Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a British citizen, survived when the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner struck a medical college shortly after departing Ahmedabad airport on June 12, 2025. The accident killed 241 passengers and crew, among them 169 Indian nationals and 52 British citizens. Nineteen people on the ground also died, and 67 others sustained serious injuries.
Ramesh said he continues to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the disaster, which took the life of his brother. Investigators have not yet released their final report on the cause.
In May 2026, India’s civil aviation minister stated that the probe was in its final phase and that a report would largely be ready by the anniversary. A preliminary report issued thirty days after the crash found that both fuel control switches had moved to the cut-off position right after takeoff, stopping fuel flow to the engines.
Ramesh noted that he lives with lasting psychological effects, the loss of his brother and unresolved questions about the events. He said these concerns are shared by all affected families, who need honesty, transparency and answers. He added that while nothing can alter what occurred, families deserve clarity.
Ramesh also faces financial hardship. His representative, Sanjiv Patel, said Air India provided £21,500 in support, yet the family struggles as Ramesh has been unable to resume normal work. Patel reported that meetings with Air India executives and Tata Group representatives produced some progress, though key issues remain open. The family currently lives on less than £1,000 per month.
Ramesh is pursuing civil action. Patel stated that neither Ramesh nor many other families have received direct contact or tailored support from the UK government. An Air India spokesperson confirmed ongoing contact and efforts to provide appropriate assistance. Legal claims against several parties are also under consideration by other families while investigations continue.
