In a heartfelt response to one of India’s most tragic aviation disasters in recent memory, Tata Group, owner of Air India, announced on Friday a compensation package of 10 million rupees (around $116,854) for the families of each person who lost their life in the crash of Flight 171 in Gujarat.
The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, tearing through the premises of B J Medical College’s hostel canteen during lunchtime.
According to the Federation of All India Medical Associations Doctors Association, one person was killed, at least seven went missing and around 50 others were injured on the ground.
In a statement, N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, said: "We are deeply anguished by the tragic event involving Air India Flight 171. No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured."
Chandrasekaran added: "Tata Group will provide 1 crore Indian rupees to the families of each person who has lost their life in this tragedy. We will also cover the medical expenses of those injured and support rebuilding the B J Medical College hostel. We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time."
Campbell Wilson, chief executive of Air India, shared his sorrow in a video message: "This is a difficult day for all of us at Air India. Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, their families and loved ones. Investigations will take time, but anything we can do now, we are doing."
To help next of kin, Air India has scheduled two special relief flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Ahmedabad. India’s foreign ministry has confirmed a significant loss of life, though official figures have yet to be released.
Early video footage of Flight 171 shows the aircraft struggling to gain altitude before descending in flames, with thick black smoke billowing from the crash site—a stark reminder of the fragility of air travel and the importance of rigorous safety protocols.
As investigators work to determine the causes, the nation mourns while families await support and clarity from one of India’s most respected conglomerates.
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Air India owner to offer $116,000 per victim's family in plane crash
cgtn.com
