Roshni Songhare, Young Flight Attendant & Influencer, Among 241 Dead in Air India Ahmedabad Crash

In a heart-wrenching tragedy that shook the nation, Air India Flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The disaster claimed the lives of 241 people, including 230 passengers and 11 crew members, with an additional 38 fatalities on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation incidents in India’s history. The flight, bound for London Gatwick, crashed into a hostel building at B.J. Medical College located in the Meghani Nagar area, just moments after takeoff.

Among the victims was 27-year-old flight attendant and travel influencer Roshni Rajendra Songhare, whose story of ambition and determination inspired many. Hailing from Dombivli, Maharashtra, Roshni overcame financial difficulties to achieve her dream of flying. She began her career with SpiceJet and later joined Air India, building a strong social media presence with over 50,000 followers on Instagram. Known for her cheerful demeanor and love for travel, Roshni was engaged and set to marry later this year in November.

Roshni’s family, friends, and followers mourn her untimely death. Her cousin recalled how passionately she pursued her dream of becoming a cabin crew member despite financial constraints and lack of connections in the industry. For her, flying wasn’t just a profession—it was a way of life. Her last social media posts reflected her enthusiasm for travel and dedication to her role. Her death has not only robbed her family of a beloved daughter but also left a void in the hearts of thousands who followed her journey online.

Other victims of the crash included veteran Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, First Officer Clive Kunder—actor Vikrant Massey’s cousin—and several young crew members from different parts of India. The only survivor was a British national of Indian origin, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, who was seated next to an emergency exit. He sustained injuries but is recovering.

The aviation ministry has launched a full-scale investigation, with one black box already recovered. Preliminary theories range from mechanical failure to bird strikes and stall-related issues. The government has called for enhanced inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft. International aviation experts, including those from the United States and United Kingdom, have joined Indian authorities and Boeing in investigating the cause of the crash.

In response, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, announced compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased person and extended counseling and logistical support to grieving families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site and met with the sole survivor, offering condolences and promising accountability.

The crash of Flight AI171 has reignited conversations about aviation safety, maintenance practices, and the emotional toll such disasters have on families. Roshni Songhare’s tragic end is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the dreams that sometimes remain unfulfilled. Her legacy will live on in the memories she created and the lives she touched.