Families say Air India forced financial disclosures for Ahmedabad crash claims

Air India is facing serious allegations from families of the AI 171 crash victims, who claim the airline forced them to disclose financial dependency to get compensation. Over 40 families represented by the UK-based Stewarts Law have accused the airline of coercion and intimidation as they pursue claims related to the Ahmedabad crash in which over 250 people were killed.

According to Stewarts, Air India allegedly pressured grieving families into disclosing sensitive financial details, including the extent of their financial dependence on the deceased, as a condition for receiving compensation.

The law firm claims the airline forced victims' families to sign forms under the threat that they would otherwise forfeit their right to any settlement or see the compensation amount reduced significantly.

Stewarts also raised concerns over a questionnaire circulated by the airline, alleging that it was designed to lower potential compensation payouts by framing dependency in a way that could weaken the families’ claims.

"This tactic has deeply distressed families already dealing with an immense loss," the firm said.

Air India, in response to the accusations, has denied any wrongdoing. In an exclusive statement to India Today, the airline said the compensation process is being handled with “flexibility and support".

It added that dedicated support staff have been assigned to help families of the crash victims.

The airline also stated that interim compensation has already been paid to 47 families, with more settlements currently in process. Air India reiterated its commitment to ensuring a fair and sensitive approach in dealing with all claims related to the AI 171 crash.

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