Air India Announces Rs 25 Lakh Interim Relief, Adds to Tata Group’s ₹1 Crore Compensation for Ahmedabad Crash Victims’ Families

Ahmedabad: Air India, now owned by the Tata Group, has announced an interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, as well as for the sole survivor of the incident. This financial support is aimed at helping families meet immediate needs during this difficult time.

This interim aid comes in addition to the ₹1 crore compensation previously announced by Tata Sons for each victim’s family.

Air India’s CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, shared the announcement through a video message posted on the airline’s official X account. “As part of our continued efforts, Air India will be providing an interim payment of ₹25 lakh, or approximately £21,000, to each of the families of the deceased and to the survivor,” Wilson said.

He added that the Air India team is currently in Ahmedabad and will remain there for as long as needed to support the families and coordinate recovery efforts. “Air India stands in solidarity with the families of the passengers who tragically lost their lives. Our teams on the ground are doing everything possible to extend care and support during this incredibly difficult time.”

Wilson also confirmed that medical expenses for the injured, including students from BJ Medical College affected by the crash, will be fully covered by the airline.

Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route to London, took off from Ahmedabad at 1:38 PM on June 12. Tragically, within minutes, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a medical hostel near the airport. Out of the 242 people on board, only one person survived. The accident claimed the lives of hundreds, including medical students and staff.

Speaking about the investigation, Wilson stated that the aircraft's black box (flight data recorder) has been recovered and will be key to determining the cause of the crash. He also confirmed that safety checks are underway on all Boeing 787 aircraft in Air India’s fleet, as per the directions of India’s aviation regulator, DGCA.

Air India expressed its condolences in a social media post, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Our thoughts are with the families, their loved ones, and everyone affected.”

The airline has deployed over 100 caregivers and 40 engineering staff to Ahmedabad as part of its ongoing assistance and investigation efforts.

In closing, Wilson reassured the public: “Air India will continue to do everything it can to care for those affected by this tragedy and to uphold the trust placed in us.”