Introduction
The Air India crash survivor story may refer to a lone physical survivor, but another harrowing saga unfolded in Surat: 62‑year‑old Abdulla Nanabawa’s shocking journey after the accident claimed his son Akeel, daughter‑in‑law Hannaa, and granddaughter Sara. What began as a routine Eid reunion turned into a nightmare in the wake of the AI171 tragedy.
Family Trip Turned Tragic
- On **June 6, 2025**, Akeel (36), his wife Hannaa (31), and their 4‑year‑old daughter Sara flew from London to Ahmedabad to surprise Abdulla in Haripura for Eid celebrations.
- Six days later, after dropping them at Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport en route to London on **June 12**, Abdulla learned of the plane’s crash near Ahmedabad airport.
Death & DNA Identification
Abdulla returned to Surat for the funeral rites of Akeel and Hannaa held early on **June 18** in Haripura, attended by community members offering Namaz‑e‑Janaza prayers . Sara’s body wasn’t initially recovered—DNA tests at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital confirmed her identity in the early hours of **June 18**, allowing Abdulla to collect her remains and return to Surat .
The Challenge of Child DNA Identification
Identifying minors like Sara posed unique difficulties. Dental tissues often degrade in high-heat scenarios, and young children may not have permanent molars. Government dental experts had to extract embryonic molars from jaw samples to complete DNA profiling. As of **June 19**, only two minors had been identified, including Sara .
Scale of the Disaster & Recovery
The **Air India Flight AI171** crash on **June 12** claimed at least **241 passengers** and over **29 people on the ground**, with only one physical survivor aboard . Over **200 bodies** had been identified by DNA by **June 19**, with dozens still awaiting confirmation .
Impact on Families
Stories like that of a canteen worker Ravi Thakor, who lost his mother and toddler daughter, highlight the widespread grief facing families in Gujarat . Meanwhile, a British filmmaker remains missing from the scene, his family having submitted DNA for identification of ground victims Air India crash survivor.
Emergency & Recovery Operations
Local authorities, CISF, NDRF, and the Indian Army responded swiftly, sealing the crash site, dousing fires, and recovering bodies. Ahmedabad airport operations were temporarily halted, and black boxes were retrieved for international investigation .
Conclusion & Way Forward
The painful ordeal endured by the Air India crash survivor—not the lone escapee but a grieving grandfather—underscores the human cost of aviation disasters. As DNA teams work tirelessly, and families await closure, Abdulla Nanabawa’s journey encapsulates both misery and resilience. Our hearts go out to all affected. Stay updated with our DNA identification efforts in Ahmedabad for the latest developments.
Suggested Next Read
Read more about the expansive DNA recovery operations: Ahmedabad DNA relief efforts.
