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Tributes are pouring in after a British family — a couple and their four-year-old daughter — were confirmed dead in the catastrophic crash of an Air India flight en route to London Gatwick.
Akeel Nanabawa and Hannaa Vorajee, from Gloucester, died along with their daughter Sara when flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, western India.
Authorities say at least 200 people were killed, with one British national believed to be the sole survivor, having reportedly escaped from seat 11A.
Family Mourned Across UK and Global Muslim Community
The Gloucestershire Muslim Bereavement Council (GMBC) released a heartfelt statement, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the bereaved families.
“No words can truly ease the pain of such a profound loss, but we pray that the family may find solace in the tremendous outpouring of compassion and solidarity from communities across the world,” GMBC said.
Describing the couple and their daughter as “beloved”, the group offered prayers that their “cherished memories provide comfort” and that they “rest in eternal peace”.
‘Profoundly Heartbroken’: Friends and Relatives React
Relatives of the Nanabawa family confirmed to the BBC that Akeel, Hannaa, and Sara were among the victims on board. In an outpouring of grief, the local Muslim community and friends from across the UK shared tributes online.
“We are profoundly heartbroken,” one family friend said. “This is a tragedy beyond words.”
Crash Investigation Underway
Officials in India have confirmed that the black box of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner — which records flight data and cockpit audio — has been recovered and is being transported for analysis.
Photos from the crash site show thick black smoke and flames billowing near the airport. The cause of the crash remains unknown, but the black box will play a central role in the investigation.
According to Republic World and other Indian news outlets, the Airports Authority of India is assisting the probe as aviation experts from multiple countries, including the UK, prepare to join the effort.
Gatwick Flight Cut Short by Tragedy
Flight AI171 had been scheduled to fly from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. It crashed minutes after takeoff, prompting an immediate suspension of similar aircraft routes in the region until further notice.
The identity of the lone survivor has not yet been confirmed, but Indian and British officials are reportedly in contact with the individual and their family.
What Happens Next?
India’s civil aviation authority has pledged a full inquiry into the incident. Investigators will examine maintenance records, air traffic control logs, and pilot communication in the hours leading up to the crash.
Meanwhile, families of the victims — both in India and the UK — continue to grieve.
📸 Image Caption: Emergency services at the crash site near Ahmedabad Airport, India
🖊️ Written by F. Dayo Olusola for M10News.com
📩 Contact: info@m10news.com
By F. Dayo Olusola 📍 Published by M10News.com 📆 June 12, 2025 📂 Category: International News|12 June 2025
