In his first-ever television interview since the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171, Tata Sons and Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran spoke exclusively to Navika Kumar, Group Editor-in-Chief, Times Now and Times Now Navbharat, addressing the nation and families of the victims with an emotional apology and a promise of accountability. The conversation, which aired across the Times Network, was both candid and sensitive, marking a critical moment in India’s aviation discourse.

Chandrasekaran began with a heartfelt message: “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.” According to a Times Network press release, this is the first time he has directly addressed the public in such detail since the June 12 tragedy in Ahmedabad that claimed over 270 lives.

The Chairman clarified that investigations are still underway and that both the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau and the DGCA are involved. Preliminary results are expected within a month. While refraining from speculation, Chandrasekaran noted that the aircraft had a clean maintenance record. “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 and First Officer Clive Kundar with 3,400 hours — were known to be extremely competent professionals.”

He dispelled rumours about Turkish Technic’s involvement in maintaining the Dreamliners, stating categorically that none of the 33 Boeing 787s in Air India’s fleet are serviced by them. “Most are maintained by AIESL or SIA Engineering Company,” he added.

When asked about the comments made by former Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel — particularly his criticism of Singapore Airlines’ silence — Chandrasekaran defended the airline, calling it a “great partner” that had consistently supported Air India with expertise, systems, and post-merger collaboration. On allegations that Air India CEO Campbell Wilson was a Singapore Airlines nominee, he clarified: “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.”

In reference to Boeing’s wider issues and whistleblower concerns, he said investigations are ongoing in the US and that 787s have a long-standing flying record. He also pointed out that the aircraft in question was part of the 2013 purchase order made long before the Tata takeover.

The post-crash operational delays and flight cancellations have caused distress to thousands of passengers. Chandrasekaran attributed these disruptions to three factors: mandatory DGCA inspections on all Dreamliners post-crash, flight diversions due to airspace restrictions amid regional tensions, and routine technical checks that occasionally ground aircraft.

“We’ve got to do a better job at communication,” he admitted, noting that a new strategic communications team has been put in place in the last three days to improve real-time updates and customer service.

On the criticism surrounding CEO Wilson’s public statement, which drew attention for closely resembling a previous address by American Airlines’ CEO after a separate crash, Chandrasekaran said, “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 responded to the backlash regarding Air India’s absence at the funerals of the 12 crew members. “That is not true. 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.”

In a final emotional note, Chandrasekaran said the airline is in the process of setting up 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.”

This sit-down interview comes at a time when public trust in the national carrier is under deep scrutiny. In choosing to speak openly, Chandrasekaran set the tone for a more transparent, humane, and accountable approach going forward.