NEW DELHI (Jul 4): Air India has strongly refuted allegations made by the families of those who died in the June 12 AI-171 plane crash in Ahmedabad, asserting that the compensation process has been transparent and in line with necessary procedures.

The families had accused the airline of coercion, claiming they were being threatened with “no compensation” if they did not complete a questionnaire and were pressured into signing documents about their financial dependence on the deceased.

In a detailed statement, Air India clarified that the questionnaire was only meant to verify familial relationships to ensure rightful distribution of interim compensation.

"We have noted allegations that families of the AI-171 victims are being forced to disclose financial dependency details to reduce compensation amounts. This is untrue," the airline said, according to news agency ANI.

Air India explained that advance payments were being processed to meet the immediate financial needs of grieving families, with initial disbursements made within days of the crash. However, to ensure payments reach the correct recipients, basic information about family relationships and financial dependency was required.

“The questionnaire includes a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response to whether family members were financially dependent on the deceased. We believe this is a necessary and fair step to ensure aid reaches those most in need,” the airline said.

The airline established a Facilitation Centre at the Taj Skyline hotel in Ahmedabad on June 15, where families could fill out the forms. Alternatively, families were informed that the forms could be submitted via email.

“There is no compulsion to fill the forms at the Centre. Many families chose to complete them at their convenience and submit them electronically. Those who submitted in person were given copies upon request,” the statement added.

As of now, Air India has disbursed interim payments to 47 families, with documentation for 55 more under review.

The interim compensation announced is ₹25 lakh (approximately £21,000) for each bereaved family and the sole survivor, in addition to the ₹1 crore (around £85,000) support already declared by Tata Sons following the tragedy that claimed 241 lives.

“This financial support is part of our continued efforts to assist the victims' families during this incredibly difficult time,” the airline emphasized.