After one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Indian history, Air India’s top official has spoken directly to grieving families, offering financial support and updates on the airline’s next steps.
On Friday, Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, addressed the public in a video message. He posted the update on social media, aiming to reach grieving families directly. In the message, he confirmed new compensation figures for the victims’ families and survivors.
Flight AI-171 had crashed just seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12. The crash killed 241 passengers and crew, along with dozens more on the ground, leaving only a single survivor.
Financial Aid And Recovery Efforts Underway
Wilson confirmed that Air India will provide ₹25 lakh (about £21,000 or $28,000) as interim compensation to the families of the deceased and the lone survivor. This amount adds to the ₹1 crore (roughly £85,000) already pledged by Tata Sons, the airline’s parent company.
He said teams have begun helping families reunite with personal belongings and, where needed, arrange for repatriation. “This is an emotional process and we ask that families be given space,” Wilson added.
Air India plan crash : Message from Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India after visiting site and meeting family#KashmirPatriot #iranisraelwar #News #Viral #new pic.twitter.com/Bmx3N4ZHnq
— Kashmir Patriot (@KashmirPatriot) June 14, 2025
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The CEO also thanked first responders, authorities, and Air India crew for their efforts in the aftermath. “Our crew continues to operate with professionalism and with safety always as their primary responsibility,” he said.
Authorities have recovered the aircraft’s black box, which will be central to the investigation. Wilson said Air India is fully cooperating with investigators and will follow every guideline set by regulators.
Meanwhile, the airline has launched precautionary safety checks across its Boeing 787 fleet under instructions from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. “We will complete all checks within the timelines prescribed by the regulator,” Wilson stated.
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff when the pilot gave a “Mayday” call, reporting power failure and loss of thrust. The plane crashed into a densely populated area, triggering a massive fire and causing widespread destruction. The investigation is still underway to determine the exact cause.
