New Delhi: Air India has disbursed interim compensation of Rs. 25 lakh each to the families of 147 out of the 229 passengers who lost their lives in the tragic AI 171 plane crash in Ahmedabad, the airline announced on Saturday.
Compensation has also been extended to the families of 19 people who died at the crash site.
The Tata Group-owned airline said that documentation for another 52 victims has been verified, and their families will receive the interim compensation in phases.
The financial assistance, which began over a month ago, is intended to support grieving families in meeting their immediate needs.
“Air India stands in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI 171 accident. We continue to mourn their loss and remain fully committed to supporting them during this difficult time,” the airline said in an official statement.
In a broader effort to extend relief, the Tata Group has established the AI 171 Memorial and Welfare Trust, which will oversee long-term aid initiatives.
The Trust has committed to offering Rs. 1 crore as ex gratia compensation for each deceased individual and will fund the restoration of the B.J. Medical College Hostel, which was damaged in the crash.
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Additionally, the Trust will provide assistance to first responders, healthcare workers, disaster management personnel, and government staff who contributed to relief efforts, acknowledging the trauma and stress they endured in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
The AI 171 tragedy occurred last month when a London-bound Air India flight from Ahmedabad crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 people — 229 passengers and 12 crew — along with 19 on the ground.
A preliminary probe by the Air Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) indicated that a sudden fuel supply failure caused both engines to shut down seconds after takeoff.
A detailed report is still awaited.
