Air India Denies Claims of Coercion in AI-171 Accident Compensation

Air India has denied accusations that it coerced families of the AI-171 accident victims into declaring financial dependency on the deceased to lower compensation payments. The airline has labeled these claims as ‘unsubstantiated and inaccurate.’ The controversy emerged following reports that some families were being pressured to disclose financial ties with their deceased loved ones as a prerequisite for compensation. Air India clarified that the request for such information is a routine measure to ensure timely distribution of interim compensation to the rightful beneficiaries. The airline emphasized its commitment to processing interim compensation swiftly to address the immediate financial needs of the affected families, with the initial payments made within days of the accident. A Facilitation Centre was established in Ahmedabad, and the questionnaire was also available via email. Air India staff were available to assist families. The airline stated that completion of the questionnaire was not mandatory and that families were free to seek legal advice. Interim compensation has been disbursed to numerous families, and Air India is working to expedite funds to others. Air India, as part of the Tata Group, is committed to its core values of integrity and responsibility and has emphasized its commitment to assisting the community. The Tata Group has also announced a voluntary ex-gratia payment. Air India has also urged caution against misinformation and the misinterpretation of facts.