In the wake of the devastating Air India AI171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 259 lives, Air India SATS (AISATS), a joint venture between Air India and Singapore-based SATS Ltd, has taken swift action against senior staff members following an office party that sparked public outrage.
The incident involved a video that went viral on social media, showing AISATS staff celebrating at an office party. The timing of the party, held shortly after the tragic plane crash, was deemed highly insensitive and drew sharp criticism online. The backlash prompted AISATS to launch an investigation and take disciplinary measures against those responsible.
As a result, four senior executives at AISATS have been asked to resign from their positions. While AISATS did not specify exactly when the party took place, sources confirmed the dismissals were a direct consequence of their involvement in organizing the event. The company emphasized that this action was necessary to uphold its ethical standards and reaffirm its commitment to empathy, professionalism, and accountability.
An AISATS spokesperson conveyed the company's regret, stating, "At AISATS, we stand in solidarity with families affected by the tragic loss of AI 171 and deeply regret the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video". The spokesperson added that the behavior displayed in the video does not align with the company's values, hence the firm disciplinary action.
The Air India AI171 crash involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London. Shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, the aircraft crashed into a hostel for medical students at BJ Medical College, located near the airport. Of the 260 people on board, only one survived. The crash also caused fatalities on the ground, bringing the total death toll to 259. The incident is considered one of India's worst aviation disasters in recent decades.
AISATS operates as a 50-50 joint venture between Air India, now owned by the Tata Group, and SATS Ltd, a global leader in airport services. The company provides ground-handling services at various airports across India. Following the incident, the company is working to restore its public image and reinforce its commitment to ethical conduct in the face of national tragedy.
