The devastating Air India plane crash that took place on June 12, 2025, continues to send shockwaves across the nation. Among the over 265 lives tragically lost, one story has especially touched hearts — that of Vaibhav Patel and Jinal Goswami, a UK-based Gujarati couple who were expecting their first child.
Vaibhav And Jinal Had Come To India For Baby Shower
Originally from Gujarat and settled in Croydon, London, Vaibhav and Jinal had flown to Ahmedabad to celebrate a special milestone — Jinal’s Seemant Sanskar, a traditional Gujarati baby shower ceremony usually held in the seventh month of pregnancy. Jinal was seven months pregnant when she and her husband boarded the ill-fated Air India Boeing 787-8 flight bound for London.
“They Were So Excited For This Trip”
Vaibhav’s close friend, Nirav Patel, expressed the couple’s excitement for the trip. Speaking to BBC, Nirav said:
“They were so excited for this trip. We had talked about their plans just a few days ago. The couple were in Ahmedabad to celebrate their own baby shower. It was on the 5 June. She was seven months pregnant. They were very happy. Vaibhav did not have a father, so he was the big son supporting the family back in India.”
Last Rites Performed In Ahmedabad
The couple’s last rites were conducted in Ahmedabad on June 16, 2025. Nirav, visibly shaken by the tragedy, shared how close he was to Vaibhav. The two had worked together at Papa John’s in Portswood, Southampton. Vaibhav had recently moved to Croydon, London, with his wife for better opportunities.
“He had rung me two days before the flight to tell me he was coming home. We were very good friends and had so much fun together… many trips around India, like to Goa or Rajasthan. This is a massive loss.”
Married For Four Years, Awaiting Their First Child
Vaibhav, 29, and Jinal, 27, were married for four years and had been looking forward to this new chapter in their lives. Friends and family describe them as a joyful, loving couple who had long dreamed of becoming parents. The tragic crash ended not only two lives but also the hope of a future they had begun to build.
A Nation Mourns With The Families
The horrific crash of AI-171 has not only left physical wreckage but also emotional devastation for countless families. The story of Vaibhav and Jinal stands as a reminder of how fragile life is and how dreams can be shattered in a moment.