Air India, India's flagship airline, is currently under scrutiny as it works to enhance its safety protocols following a tragic crash incident last week. The airline's commitment to improving its operational safety has become increasingly critical, especially since it has faced a history of dangerous incidents in the past. The last significant fatal accident prior to the recent crash occurred in August 2020 when an Air India Express flight from Dubai tragically overshot the runway at Kozhikode, resulting in the deaths of both pilots and 19 passengers.
Founded in 1932, Air India was government-owned until its sale in 2022 to the Tata Group, a prestigious Indian business conglomerate and the original creator of the airline. Tata Group's chairman N. Chandrasekaran expressed condolences to the families affected by the recent tragic event: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event." Following the incident, Air India's website featured a somber gray theme and a message of sorrow.
Since acquiring the airline, Tata Group has worked to streamline operations and has incorporated smaller airlines into the Air India brand. However, challenges remain in acquiring sufficient aircraft and recruitment of pilots necessary for expanding services. Currently, Air India and IndiGo dominate the Indian air travel market, collectively carrying 91% of domestic passengers.
The share prices of various Tata companies—including Tata Motors and Tata Consultancy Services—dropped around 3% following news of the crash. Shares for IndiGo also experienced a decline. Safety concerns surrounding Air India have surfaced in the past, particularly after a series of near-misses and operational mishaps in the late 2000s. Notably, an Air India plane had flown without a pilot for some time due to a disturbance in the cockpit, while another aircraft endured an 11-hour delay caused by a search for rodents onboard.
In the wake of last week's incident, Air India announced its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the crash. The airline's commitment to restore public confidence in its safety measures is paramount as it navigates through these turbulent times.
