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Air India denies victim family pressure claims
10 Jun
Summary
- Airline states no deadline or pressure for final settlement offers.
- Families can await official investigation findings before deciding.
- RDI document is for finality, not to shield third-party liability.
Air India has firmly denied allegations of pressuring families of victims from the AI-171 crash to accept compensation offers prematurely. The airline emphasized that no deadline exists for accepting its final settlement, and relatives are encouraged to await the official investigation report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
The airline issued a statement clarifying the purpose of its Receipt, Discharge & Indemnity (RDI) document. It explained that the RDI's wording is standard industry practice, designed solely to ensure that compensation settlements are final and to protect Air India from subsequent claims.
Air India reiterated its deep sorrow for the loss of life caused by the AI-171 tragedy. The airline noted that interim compensation payments began in October 2025, with many families also receiving ex gratia assistance of Rs 1 crore from the AI-171 Memorial and Welfare Trust.
The carrier specified that the RDI document does not aim to shield aircraft manufacturers or other third parties from their legal liabilities. It highlighted that passengers or families can pursue compensation directly from third parties, who might then seek claims against the airline.
