Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British man, has described the horror of the Air India plane crash that killed 241 people. Speaking from his hospital bed, he said he thought he was dead when the Boeing 787 Dreamliner struck a medical college shortly after take-off. He escaped through an opening in the fuselage after unbuckling his seatbelt and pushing his leg through the gap.
The crash on Thursday is one of the deadliest involving British nationals and the first fatal accident for the 787 model. At least five medical students on the ground were also killed, with about 50 injured. The Indian prime minister, Narendra Modi, visited the crash site and spoke to Mr Ramesh in hospital.
Mr Ramesh, who was returning to the UK after visiting family in India, told DD News: “I saw people dying in front of my eyes – the air hostesses, and two people I saw near me.” His brother Nayan, speaking outside the family home in Leicester, said: “We were just shocked… He said: ‘I have no idea how I exited the plane.’”
Among the victims are believed to be British couple Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek, who ran a spiritual wellness centre. Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa, and their four-year-old daughter Sara, from Gloucester, were also reported dead. Raj Mishra, the mayor of Wellingborough, announced the deaths of Raxa Modha, infant Rudra Modha, and Ms K Mistri.
Investigations into the cause of the crash continue. Aviation experts have speculated about possible engine failure or incorrect flap settings. The Air India chief executive, Campbell Wilson, visited the area but did not speak to media. The Foreign Office said any British nationals with concerns should call 020 7008 5000.
