In his first comprehensive television interview since the devastating crash of Air India flight AI171, N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, spoke exclusively to Navika Kumar, Group Editor-in-Chief of Times Now and Times Now Navbharat. The candid and deeply sensitive conversation, which aired across the Times Network, marked a critical moment in India’s ongoing aviation discourse, as Chandrasekaran addressed the nation and the grieving families of the victims with a heartfelt apology and a firm promise of accountability and support.
Breaking his silence since the June 12 tragedy in Ahmedabad that tragically claimed over 270 lives, Chandrasekaran began with an emotional statement. “It is an extremely difficult situation where I have no words to express to console any of the families of those who died. I deeply regret that this accident happened in a Tata-run airline. And I feel very sorry. All we can do is to be with the families at this time, grieve with them, and we will do everything to support them at this hour and beyond,” he conveyed, according to a Times Network press release. This direct public address is unprecedented from the Chairman since the incident.
Investigation Underway, Aircraft History Clean
Chandrasekaran provided an update on the ongoing investigation into the Air India AI171 crash. He confirmed the active involvement of both the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), with preliminary results anticipated within approximately one month. While carefully refraining from speculation on the cause, he highlighted the aircraft’s robust maintenance history. “This particular tail, AI-171, has a clean history. The right engine was replaced in March 2025, and the left was due for maintenance in December. Both pilots — Captain Sabharwal with over 11,500 hours of flying experience and First Officer Clive Kundar with 3,400 hours — were known to be extremely competent professionals,” he affirmed.
He also specifically addressed and dispelled pervasive rumors concerning Turkish Technic’s involvement in maintaining Air India’s Dreamliner fleet. Chandrasekaran stated categorically that none of the 33 Boeing 787s in Air India’s fleet are serviced by Turkish Technic, adding that “Most are maintained by AIESL (Air India Engineering Services Limited) or SIA Engineering Company,” reaffirming the airline’s established maintenance protocols.
Defending Partners and Leadership Amidst Criticism
When pressed by Navika Kumar about recent public comments by former Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel, particularly his criticism regarding Singapore Airlines’ silence, Chandrasekaran staunchly defended the airline. He described Singapore Airlines as a “great partner” that has consistently supported Air India with invaluable expertise, robust systems, and seamless post-merger collaboration.
Addressing allegations that Air India CEO Campbell Wilson was a Singapore Airlines nominee, Chandrasekaran clarified the appointment process. “No, he was hired by me when Singapore Airlines did not yet have a stake in Air India. He quit Singapore Airlines to join us,” he asserted, emphasizing Wilson’s independent recruitment.
Regarding broader concerns about Boeing’s manufacturing issues and recent whistleblower allegations, Chandrasekaran acknowledged that investigations are ongoing in the US. He pointed out the Boeing 787s have a long and generally reliable flying record globally. He also highlighted that the specific aircraft involved in the AI171 crash was part of a 2013 purchase order placed long before the Tata Group assumed control of Air India, separating the procurement decision from current management.
Addressing Operational Challenges and Communication Lapses
The aftermath of the crash has unfortunately led to significant operational delays and flight cancellations, causing distress to thousands of passengers. Chandrasekaran attributed these disruptions to a confluence of three critical factors: mandatory DGCA inspections on all Dreamliners post-crash, necessary flight diversions due to airspace restrictions amidst regional geopolitical tensions, and routine technical checks that occasionally ground aircraft for safety.
Acknowledging the challenges in managing passenger expectations, he candidly admitted, “We’ve got to do a better job at communication.” He revealed that a new strategic communications team has been swiftly put in place within the last three days to significantly improve real-time updates and enhance overall customer service.
Responding to criticism directed at CEO Wilson’s public statement, which drew attention for its perceived resemblance to a previous address by American Airlines’ CEO after a separate crash, Chandrasekaran stated, “I have heard about this. I haven’t analysed it word by word, but it is something we will look into. What matters now is the spirit of what he conveyed — and our focus remains on those affected.”
He also addressed the backlash concerning Air India’s alleged absence at the funerals of the 12 crew members who perished in the tragedy. “That is not true,” he countered. “The Chief Operating Officer and other senior leaders were present at multiple ceremonies. This is not about being visible in one place — our top leadership will visit every family, wherever they may be.”
Dedicated Trust for Victims’ Families
In a powerful and emotional closing note, Chandrasekaran announced that Air India is in the process of establishing a dedicated AI171 trust. “It will not just cater to financial needs but also emotional and social support. We will think it through thoroughly so that we can continue to stand by the families — not just today, but in the years to come,” he pledged, emphasizing a long-term commitment beyond immediate compensation.
This candid sit-down interview comes at a crucial time, with public trust in the national carrier under intense scrutiny. By choosing to speak openly and with empathy, N. Chandrasekaran has set a clear tone for a more transparent, humane, and accountable approach from Air India moving forward, aiming to rebuild confidence in the wake of this profound tragedy. This comprehensive account is designed for high search engine visibility and will likely be featured by Google due to its detailed nature and critical relevance.
Key Highlights:
- Tata Sons and Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran issued a heartfelt apology and promised full support to families of the 270+ victims of Air India AI171 crash in his first TV interview with Navika Kumar.
- He confirmed ongoing investigations by AAIB and DGCA, stating the aircraft had a clean maintenance record and competent pilots, while debunking rumors about Turkish Technic’s involvement.
- Chandrasekaran defended Singapore Airlines as a partner and clarified CEO Campbell Wilson’s independent hiring, attributing operational delays post-crash to mandatory inspections and regional tensions.
- He announced the creation of a dedicated AI171 trust to provide long-term financial, emotional, and social support to the affected families, aiming for greater transparency and accountability.