UK Families of Air India Crash Victims Consider Legal Action Against Airline, Boeing: Sources

Families of UK nationals who lost their lives in the Air India (AI 171) crash are reportedly weighing legal action against both Air India and aircraft manufacturer Boeing in UK courts, according to sources.

The move is aimed at seeking higher compensation for the victims’ families beyond what has already been offered. The tragic crash of the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of 276 people, including 242 passengers and crew and 34 individuals on the ground. Among the victims, 181 were Indian nationals and 52 were from the United Kingdom.

Sources revealed that the bereaved families have been in contact with UK-based firm Keystone Law to explore legal options under international aviation laws. The discussions are centered around filing lawsuits to demand enhanced compensation.

While the Tata Group, which owns Air India, initially offered Rs 1 crore in compensation per victim, it later announced an additional interim payment of Rs 25 lakh to assist families with immediate financial burdens. However, several UK families believe these amounts are insufficient and may not align with standards under global conventions.

Keystone Law confirmed it was in dialogue with several affected families and evaluating the actions taken by Air India’s lead insurer, TataAIG. The firm said it was assessing whether the airline had fulfilled its international obligations, including providing advance payments as stipulated under the Montreal Convention.

“A series of meetings with families are scheduled this week to discuss next steps,” the firm stated. A final decision regarding legal proceedings is expected after those consultations conclude.

Under the Montreal Convention, families of crash victims can pursue legal claims in jurisdictions where the airline operates or where the victims had residence—potentially allowing the cases to be heard in UK courts.