Malaysia Airlines has sought to clarify inaccuracies appearing in newspaper reports claiming families affected by the MH17 tragedy were “insulted” by the airline’s compensation offer.
The airline released the statement after a report entitled “Families insulted by MAS’ offer, says lawyer”, was published on Friday by Malay Mail, having first appeared in the SMH earlier in the week.
“The article quoted Jerry Skinner, a US-based lawyer representing eight Australian families affected by the MH17 tragedy, who claimed that these families are insulted by the US$50,000 Advance Compensation offered by MAS,” the airline said.
“MAS notes that yet again Mr. Skinner has failed to understand, despite numerous communications, that the amount offered is an advance compensation payment meant to assist the immediate family members in meeting their economic needs.”
“As has previously been stated publicly by MAS as well as being highlighted in documentation provided to the families of the passengers, this payment will not affect the families’ rights to claim full compensation according to the law at a later stage and it will be calculated as part of and offset against the final compensation.
"Payment will be made after the due process has been completed by the families or lawyers acting on their behalf with assistance from MAS’ lawyers. The final compensation will be paid as soon as possible once the necessary legal formalities have been completed,” the airline said.
According to the statement, families affected are “at liberty to either accept or reject” the offer and their “well-being” has always been the “central focus” of the airline.
“Therefore the airline regrets that a handful of families have been ill-advised by certain law firms who are clearly not well-versed in the operation of the relevant law.”
“MAS reiterates that it continues to do its utmost to ensure that fair and adequate compensation is paid to the families of MH17 passengers.”
