Air India, Air India Express and Vistara pause to pay special inflight homage to Ratan Tata after his passing

In a moving tribute to Ratan Tata, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86, Air India, Air India Express, and Vistara made special inflight announcements today, honoring the legacy of the Tata Group patriarch. Known for his deep passion for aviation, Tata left an indelible mark on the sector, which he helped nurture and grow over decades.

Throughout the day, passengers aboard Tata Group airlines, which include Air India, Air India Express, and Vistara, heard special announcements dedicated to Tata. Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, acknowledged Tata’s significant contributions to both Indian aviation and the Tata Group's airlines, expressing gratitude for his profound impact. Aloke Singh, CEO of Air India Express, noted that Tata’s guidance has been instrumental in shaping the organisation, emphasising that his legacy will continue to inspire future journeys.

These tributes come as the Tata Group consolidates its airline holdings. The merger of Air India Express and AIX Connect was completed on October 1, while Vistara’s integration with Air India is set for November. The consolidation marks a significant milestone in the Tata Group’s aviation strategy — a vision that Tata helped to shape. Vistara, a joint venture between the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has thrived since its inception, largely due to Tata's strategic vision and the successful partnership with Singapore Airlines.

Vinod Kannan, CEO of Vistara, highlighted how Tata's influence extends beyond the Tata Group, inspiring people across the nation. He remarked on Tata's special connection to aviation, a sector that was close to his heart and remained a priority for the business leader throughout his life.

As a mark of respect, Air India Express updated its website and social media channels to reflect a somber theme featuring white lilies against a dark background. Other Indian airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, also paid their respects. IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers expressed the airline’s sadness over Tata’s passing, describing him as a visionary whose influence on Indian aviation will be long-lasting. Both SpiceJet and Akasa Air celebrated Tata’s legacy of excellence, compassion, and innovation.

The international aviation community shared in the remembrance. Airbus India & South Asia President Remi Maillard spoke of Tata’s modesty and commitment to philanthropy, recalling a visit Tata made to Airbus in Toulouse where he shared his enthusiasm for aviation. According to Maillard, Tata’s leadership was defined by a sincere passion for flying and a vision for the future of aviation in India.

Boeing’s President for India & South Asia, Salil Gupte, underscored Tata's lasting impact on aerospace and defense, emphasising his dedication to corporate responsibility and his ability to inspire future generations. Gupte noted that Tata's remarkable qualities continue to serve as a guiding light for the industry.

In another sign of respect, Airbus postponed the inauguration of its new India and South Asia headquarters, originally scheduled for Thursday. Singapore Airlines, which has partnered with the Tata Group in the Vistara joint venture, expressed its condolences, with CEO Goh Choon Phong recalling Tata’s foundational role in establishing Vistara as a beloved airline in India.

India’s Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu took to social media to remember Tata as a leader who transformed not only Indian industry but also the country’s aviation sector. Naidu described Tata’s influence as pivotal in shaping modern Indian aviation.

Ratan Tata’s vision and leadership transformed not only the Tata Group but also the Indian aviation landscape. His passion for aviation and relentless pursuit of excellence will continue to inspire generations, ensuring that his legacy, much like the aircraft he helped launch, soars high for years to come.

(With inputs from PTI)