Bahia Bakari’s harrowing tale of survival amidst Yemen Airways crash

In a remarkable tale of survival, Bahia Bakari recounts her experience as the sole survivor of a tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of 152 people. Bahia Bakari, who was just 12 years old at the time, was on board a Yemen Airways flight from Paris to Comoros with her mother when disaster struck on June 30, 2009.

The Airbus A310 crashed into the sea while descending, leaving 141 passengers and 11 crew members dead. Miraculously, Bakari survived the crash and was rescued after spending 11 hours in the water.

Speaking in a Paris court in 2022, Bakari recalled the terrifying moments leading up to the crash. She described feeling turbulence during the night flight and then waking up in the water after feeling an electrical shock. Despite sustaining injuries, including a broken collarbone and hip, Bakari managed to stay afloat by holding onto a piece of debris until she was rescued by fishermen.

Bakari’s ordeal didn’t end there. She spent hours in the water, listening to cries for help in her native Comorian language before falling asleep and waking up alone. Despite the trauma and loss she experienced, Bakari’s resilience and will to survive never wavered.

In a landmark ruling, Yemenia, the airline responsible for the flight, was found guilty of involuntary homicide for the crash. The court ordered the airline to pay a fine and damages to Bakari and the families of the victims. The ruling was hailed as a step towards justice for the victims and their loved ones.

Bahia Bakari’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and serves as a reminder of the fragility of life. Her courage and survival against all odds will continue to inspire generations to come.