Ratan Tata, was an architect by training and an aviator by passion began his aviation journey about two and half years after Air India was brought back to the Tata fold. Tata passed away on 9 October and he was 86 years old. His dream of getting Air India back to the Tatas was fulfilled in January 2022 after many years of struggle and roadblocks in the aviation sector.
Tata’s aviation venture
For several years, Ratan Tata witnessed many hindrances in his pursuit to re-establish the presence of Tata Group in the aviation sector. His vision was finally achieved with the inauguration of AirAsia India and later Vistara with a tie-up with Singapore Airlines. AirAsia India was rebranded as AIX Connect and was merged with Air India Express on 1 October and launched its first flight in 2014 in partnership with Malaysia’s AirAsia Berhad. Vistara started its full services in January 2015.
When Tata long awaited dream was fulfilled
After acquiring Air India, Tata expressed his enthusiasm and stated, ”The Tata Group welcomes Air India’s new customers and is elevated to work together for making Air India the airline of choice in terms of passengers’ comfort and service.”
Air India’s History
Air India was initially established by JRD Tata in 1932 by the name Tata Airlines, the airline was later nationalized and renamed as Air India. Ratan Tata’s passion for bringing back Air India under Tata Group remained a very old ambition. Earlier attempts were made to enter the aviation market by collaborating with Singapore Airlines in 1994 and in 2000 but it failed. Finally, the dream became reality with the launch of Vistara in 2015 and later announced merging it with Air India in November 2022.
Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong hails Tata as a valuable friend and partner. He appreciated his vital efforts in establishing Vistara and developing a robust relationship between the two companies. The aviation sector held a special place in Tata’s heart, Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan highlighted.
Airbus India’s Remi Mailard also extended tribute to Tata’s passion and dedication to the aviation sector. He also emphasized his undying commitment to the revival of Air India. Meanwhile, Indigo’s Rahul Bhatia also stated that the airline will jointly work along with Air India to raise India’s status in the global aviation sector. Now, as Air India continues on its transformation journey, Tata’s vision will continue to guide the airline.
(With inputs from PTI)