Support given to Air NZ crash families

Rob Fyfe. Photo / Greg Bowker

The families of those lost in the Air New Zealand crash off France are being "well and truly looked after" by the airline, one of the company directors pledged yesterday.

While the board was unwilling to be drawn on compensation for the families, director James Fox said chief executive Rob Fyfe was leading the effort to help the families of the five who died.

Fox said they had been offered "a good package of support financially and pastorally".

"I'm aware that these matters are being dealt with and the families are being well and truly looked after by Air New Zealand."

Bill English, the minister responsible for the Government's shareholding in Air NZ, said compensation was in the airline's hands.

"It (is) an important matter for families and shouldn't be treated lightly."

Shellie Horrell, wife of pilot Brian Horrell, one of the victims, said she was unaware the airline had received its insurance payout for the downed plane.

"What I do know is that the interim report is incomplete and that the causes are complex and the result of many, many factors. I am led to believe it may be one to two years before the final report is available and we will not know much more until that time."

Horrell said she was "so very proud of Brian".

"He was such a good, caring and thoughtful man. He was great fun to have around and so very professional in his application to his work. He loved flying.

"This is so sad not only for us but also for all the other families who are grieving."