How is Air India Supporting Families of Crash Victims?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Air India is providing financial support of Rs 25 lakh to families affected by the AI 171 crash.
- Over 200 caregivers are offering round-the-clock assistance in Ahmedabad.
- The airline is cooperating with ongoing investigations into the crash.
- Precautionary safety checks on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet are being conducted.
- Senior management is committed to supporting the families throughout this process.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) Air India announced on Saturday that it will provide an interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the families of each individual who tragically lost their life in the plane crash of flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad, as well as to the sole survivor. This compensation is in addition to the Rs 1 crore assistance already pledged by Tata Sons.
In a video message shared on the social media platform X, Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson stated that over 200 trained caregivers are currently in Ahmedabad, providing round-the-clock support to the families affected by the tragedy.
Each impacted family has been assigned a dedicated support representative, along with access to counseling and other essential services.
Wilson, who personally visited the crash site and interacted with some of the mourning families, mentioned that the airline’s senior leadership, including Tata Sons and Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, had already visited the city, and key members of the airline’s management team will be available “for as long as it takes.”
He stated, “The process of reuniting the next of kin with their loved ones’ remains and personal belongings has begun.”
Wilson added that Air India teams are collaborating closely with local authorities and families to handle this sensitive and emotional undertaking, including arrangements for repatriation whenever necessary.
“This is an emotional process, and we ask that families be given space,” he emphasized.
Additionally, Air India has initiated precautionary safety inspections on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, as instructed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Wilson further mentioned: “As confirmed by the authorities, the aircraft's data recorder has been retrieved, which will be part of the official investigation, and Air India continues to fully cooperate with these inquiries.”
He expressed gratitude to first responders, emergency personnel, and the airline’s crew, stating, “I also wish to acknowledge the efforts of first responders and those from many organizations since the accident, and also to our crew, who continue to operate with professionalism and prioritize safety.”
In a prior announcement on Saturday, the airline confirmed that nine aircraft have completed the inspections, with the remaining 24 expected to be checked within the regulatory timeline.
These checks, which include engine-related tests and assessments of fuel systems, hydraulics, and cabin compressors, are being conducted as each aircraft returns to India.