New Delhi [India], June 14 (ANI): Air India on Saturday announced an interim financial assistance of ₹25 lakh (approximately GBP 21,000) each for the families of those who lost their lives and the lone survivor of the tragic plane crash involving its London-bound flight in Ahmedabad.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI171, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday. The aircraft rammed into the doctors’ hostel at BJ Medical College in the Meghaninagar area of Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of 241 people out of the 242 on board. Only one passenger, Vishwashkumar Ramesh—a British national of Indian origin—survived the crash and is currently receiving medical treatment.
In a post on X, the Tata Group-owned airline stated, “Air India stands in solidarity with the families of the passengers who tragically lost their lives in the recent accident. Our teams on the ground are doing everything possible to extend care and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
It added, “As part of our continued efforts, Air India will be providing an interim payment of ₹25 lakh or approximately GBP 21,000 each to the families of the deceased and to the survivor to help address immediate financial needs. This is in addition to the ₹1 crore or approximately GBP 85,000 support already announced by Tata Sons.”
Earlier on Thursday, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran had announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹1 crore to the families of the deceased, and assured that the medical expenses of the injured would be fully covered. He also pledged support for rebuilding the BJ Medical College doctors’ hostel, which sustained significant damage in the crash.
“There is no compensation that can truly replace the lives lost. However, we hope that this financial support will assist the affected families in the short term as they cope with this unimaginable loss,” Chandrasekaran said in a statement.
The crash, which claimed the lives of nearly everyone aboard—including 230 passengers and 11 of the 12 crew members—has shocked the nation and prompted calls for a full investigation into the cause. Aviation authorities have launched a formal inquiry, and Air India has stated its full cooperation with the investigation.
(ANI)
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