Nearly a year after the devastating AI 171 plane crash in Ahmedabad claimed 260 lives, the emotional scars remain deeply embedded in the lives of victims’ families and survivors. While investigations and official processes have moved forward, many relatives continue to struggle with grief, anxiety, and a lasting fear of air travel. For several families, the tragedy did not end on the day of the crash, as the psychological impact continues to shape their daily lives.

Among those still coping with the loss is Diu resident Rafik Arab, who lost his 25-year-old son Faizan in the disaster. Faizan, who was pursuing Islamic studies in the United Kingdom, was traveling back to London after spending time with his family. Rafik recalls receiving a final text message from his son shortly before departure, unaware it would be their last communication. Since the crash, the family has avoided air travel entirely, with even the sound of aircraft overhead serving as a painful reminder of their loss.

The tragedy also transformed the life of Surat resident Mukti Vansadiya, who lost both her parents, Divya and Arjunsinh, during what was meant to be their first international trip. Excited to visit family in London, the elderly couple had boarded the flight from Ahmedabad after changing their original travel plans. Mukti said she continues to relive memories of their final farewell at the airport and has since battled depression and anxiety. Although counseling helped her rebuild her life and pursue social work, she says discussions about airplanes still trigger emotional distress.

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In Banaskantha district’s Dhanera village, the family of Kamlesh Chaudhary continues to mourn a future that disappeared within moments. Kamlesh and his wife Dhapuben, both 26, were among those killed in the crash just months after their marriage. Kamlesh had established a life in London and had returned to India to bring his wife abroad after her visa was approved. His father, Savdhan Chaudhary, recalls his son’s dreams of supporting the family and helping his younger brother build a future overseas, aspirations that ended with the tragedy.

The impact of the crash extended beyond passengers and their families. Ajay Parmar, who witnessed the disaster from the ground when the aircraft crashed into the Meghaninagar hostel complex, suffered severe burn injuries while travelling on his two-wheeler. After spending months in treatment, he was forced to abandon his work as a gardener due to medical restrictions. Parmar said the trauma continues to affect his mental health, while financial difficulties and personal setbacks have compounded the challenges he faces.

As the first anniversary of the AI 171 crash approaches, stories from families and survivors highlight the long-term human cost of one of India’s deadliest aviation tragedies. Beyond the loss of lives, the disaster left behind enduring emotional wounds, shattered dreams, and persistent fears that continue to affect those connected to the tragedy. For many, healing remains an ongoing journey, underscoring the profound and lasting impact of the crash on hundreds of lives.

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