Following the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, Air India has announced an interim payment of Rs 25 lakh to the families of the deceased and to the lone survivor, Vishwaskumar Ramesh. This payment is intended to provide immediate financial assistance to help families cope with the aftermath of the disaster. The airline stated that it "stands in solidarity" with those affected by the devastating event.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, carrying 230 passengers, 2 pilots, and 10 cabin crew members, went down in a residential area near the airport, resulting in casualties on the ground as well. The crash site was near Meghaninagar, and the plane impacted buildings, including the dining area of a medical college, B.J. Medical College, leading to injuries and fatalities among students and staff.
In the wake of the crash, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, has announced a compensation package of Rs 1 crore for the families of each deceased passenger, and will cover the medical expenses of those injured. This is in addition to the Rs 25 lakh interim payment from Air India. Campbell Wilson, Air India's MD and CEO, expressed deep sorrow and affirmed the airline's commitment to providing full assistance during this difficult time. He also stated that the company has deployed 100 caregivers and 40 engineering staff to Ahmedabad to support the relief efforts.
The crash has prompted a high-level investigation led by the Union Home Secretary. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered extended surveillance and technical inspections of all Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft in the Indian fleet. India currently operates 34 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and inspections are being carried out with "immediate urgency" to ensure the safety and airworthiness of the fleet. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the crash, with initial reports suggesting the plane lost altitude soon after takeoff and impacted buildings in the residential area. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has trashed speculations about possible mechanical, electronic or technical issues. The minister confirmed that the same plane had completed the Paris-Delhi-Ahmedabad sector "without any accident".
Emergency services, including fire engines, ambulances, and city police, were quickly deployed to the crash site. DNA testing is underway to identify the remains of the victims, many of whom were burned beyond recognition, with authorities working to expedite the process and return the bodies to their families. A black box has been recovered.
The incident has been described as India's worst aviation disaster in over 15 years, and has drawn condolences and support from both national and international leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness and assured that all possible assistance would be provided to those affected.
