One year after the devastating Air India crash that killed 241 people, bereaved family members say they are still struggling to obtain answers about what happened. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner struck a medical college shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, India, on 12 June last year, killing 169 Indian nationals, 52 Britons, and 19 people on the ground. A further 67 people were seriously injured.
Personal Stories of Loss
Sagar Patel, a business manager from London, lost his mother, Hasumatiben Patel, in the crash. She was returning to the UK after visiting family in India. Patel recalled his last conversation with her: 'I told her: I'll be there to come and pick you up. I'll see you later on.' He described his mother as 'the heart of the family' and said her loss has been devastating for his family, especially his young daughter who still looks for her grandmother.
Shweta Parihar lost her husband, Abhinav Parihar, who was travelling back to Britain. She initially lied to her 11-year-old son about his father's death, but when he learned the truth, he became deeply affected. 'He starts crying over small things now,' she said. The family had moved to Britain only a few years before the crash, and she now struggles as a single parent with little support.
Mohammed Shoeb Iproliya lost his wife, Nusratjahan. He said the anniversary brought back memories of their shared dreams, which are now broken. 'I only want justice,' he stated.
Lack of Answers and Support
Investigators have yet to publish their final conclusions about the crash, though further developments are expected. Mike Andrews, an aviation attorney representing about 135 affected families, said relatives have faced 'roadblocks' from Air India while seeking information. 'They are still being victimised, even one year after the crash,' he said.
Parihar decried a lack of support from the Indian and British governments, as well as Air India and the Tata Group, which owns the airline. She is seeking practical help to rebuild her life, including more stable employment, a work permit, and support for her son's education and activities.
Call for Justice and Closure
Patel travelled to India this week to mark the first anniversary, hoping for 'some sort of closure'. He urged others to 'cherish your parents', adding that 'not having them around is one of the most difficult things to deal with.'
The families continue to push for more information about the investigation. 'Even just provide us a little bit of updates,' Patel said. 'We've not even heard the black box or anything like that.'
