Ninety-five percent of the families affected by the Air India Flight 171 crash have received interim compensation, according to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson. The flight, which crashed just 32 seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport to London Gatwick on June 12, had 12 crew members and 229 passengers on board; tragically, only one passenger survived. On the ground, 19 individuals lost their lives, and 67 others sustained serious injuries.
During a press conference at the Air India Training Academy in Gurugram, Wilson assured reporters, “We continue to do all we can to support those who were affected. Ninety-five percent of families have received their interim compensation.” He added that approximately 70 families have also received ex gratia payments from the AI 171 memorial trust, with another 50 in progress. The company is committed to reaching out to the affected families, offering them ongoing assistance.
Wilson emphasized Air India’s dedication to the bereaved, stating, “Our commitment to those who have had a loss, whether on the ground or in the air, will continue for as long as it takes.” He described the compensation process as fair and well-managed. The CEO also addressed concerns about a decline in booking rates following the accident, which he attributed to both the crash and external crises, including unrest in the Middle East. Fortunately, Wilson reported that bookings have since recovered.
Mental health support for the crew has become a priority both before and after the crash. “The mental health of all staff, particularly the crew, has been crucial since privatization,” Wilson mentioned. He highlighted various initiatives, including access to professional psychologists and a buddy program to encourage open communication among staff members.
Furthermore, he noted ongoing training courses aimed at enhancing crew interaction with passengers, regardless of individual preferences or requests. A state-of-the-art training facility in Gurugram, the first of its kind in India, offers cabin crew and pilots practical training in managing emergencies like turbulence and fires, as well as situations involving pilot incapacitation.
“We invest in this early and benchmark against the best globally, as many outsiders may not appreciate the vital role of a training facility for an airline,” Wilson explained. He emphasized that this investment is not only about professional standards but also about fostering a positive culture for crew members operating at high altitudes.
The commitment to enhancing training reflects Air India’s aspiration to build a world-class airline.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/11/24/ai-171-crash-95-pc-families-received-interim-compensation-says-air-india-ceo/
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Publish Date: 2025-11-24 21:16:00
