Article 28 Montreal Convention
Article 28 of the Montreal Convention (Convention For the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air) is titled Advance Payments. It is under Chapter III (Liability of the Carrier and Extent of Compensation for Damage).
In the case of aircraft accidents resulting in death or injury of passengers, the carrier shall, if required by its national law, make advance payments without delay to a natural person or persons who are entitled to claim compensation in order to meet the immediate economic needs of such persons. Such advance payments shall not constitute a recognition of liability and may be offset against any amounts subsequently paid as damages by the carrier.
See also: Article 27 Montreal Convention