On June 12, 2025, tragedy struck when Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Amidst a devastating loss of over 240 lives, one name shone through the headlines Roshni Rajendra Songhare, an Air India cabin crew member and beloved travel influencer with more than 54,000 Instagram followers.
The Incident in Brief
The aircraft, carrying 242 people 230 passengers and 12 crew, including Roshni, lost contact moments after takeoff. It plunged into a residential area, claiming at least 204 lives, with others on the ground also tragically impacted. Miraculously, one British survivor seat 11A came out alive, offering a ray of hope amid the calamity .
Rescue teams raced to the scene, employing sniffer dogs and DNA testing to locate and identify victims. Emergency services included local authorities, NDRF units, and international investigators from the U.S. and U.K.
Who Was Roshni Rajendra Songhare?
- Born in Dombivli, Maharashtra, Roshni pursued her dream of becoming a flight attendant from humble beginnings in a rented room.
- At just 27, she transitioned from SpiceJet to Air India, soon taking on international flights her career was on a rapid ascent .
- Apart from her role as cabin crew, she also shared her journey as a travel influencer, earning the affectionate title of “air hostess influencer”.
- Her story touched many preparing for her November wedding while climbing flight decks and following her passion. Now, her family mourns a life full of boundless dreams .
About the Crew
Also on board were:
- Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, a veteran pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, close to retirement.
- First Officer Clive Kunder, with 1,100 hours of flying time.
- Ten other crew members: Saineeta Chakravarti, Aparna Mahadik, Deepak Pathak, Maithili Patil, Shraddha Dhavan, Nganthoi Sharma, Lamnunthem Singson, Manisha Thapa, Irfan Shaikh.
They came from diverse backgrounds some were mothers, others the first in their family to realize aviation dreams. Their dedication to service defines their legacy .
Public Grief & National Response
- Maharashtra MLA Ravindra Chavan publicly mourned Roshni, expressing deep sadness and prayers for her soul.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site, offering support to families.
- International figures from King Charles III to leaders in Canada and Pakistan sent condolences, as the disaster affected both local and global communities .
What Caused the Crash?
While investigations are ongoing, initial findings suggest:
- Possible bird strike leading to dual engine failure shortly after takeoff.
- One black box recovered, with extensive forensic and technical testing underway.
What Lies Ahead
- Ongoing DNA testing to identify recovered bodies .
- International teams, including FAA and AAIB, collaborating with Indian agencies.
- Air India and parent Tata Group offering financial and medical aid to victims’ families, including ₹1 crore compensation.
Why Roshni’s Story Matters
Roshni wasn’t just a crew member she was a digitally influential storyteller who celebrated travel and service. Her death highlights the personal cost behind airline tragedies, reminding us that aviation heroes come from all walks of life. She represented ambition, kindness, and the power of dreams attributes that resonated with thousands of followers.
Final Thoughts
The Ahmedabad crash is a national trauma that shook India to its core. But the story of Roshni Songhare, and her fellow crew members, reminds us of human fragility and heroism in the face of tragedy. As investigations proceed, the nation’s focus remains on healing supporting survivors, honoring memories, and ensuring such a disaster never recurs.
FAQs
Q1: Was Roshni Songhare the only celebrity on board?
She was the only travel influencer and a crew member highlighted in media, though other notable passengers were also aboard.
Q2: Who survived the crash?
A single British national, seat 11A, walked away and is currently recovering.
Q3: Are they investigating the crash?
Yes—international teams, including NTSB and AAIB, are contributing to a probe. One black box has been recovered .
Q4: What support is being offered to families?
Air India and Tata have offered ₹1 crore compensation, medical aid, and logistics support for bereaved families .
Q5: How can travelers pay tribute?
You can donate to verified relief funds, light virtual candles, or share stories and memories with the hashtag #RememberRoshni.
