Former Civil Aviation Minister and Nationalist Congress Party leader Praful Patel has sharply criticized Singapore Airlines for its subdued public response following the crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on June 12. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner came down moments after takeoff, killing 241 of the 242 onboard and at least 38 on the ground.
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Stakeholder Silence Raises Eyebrows
Patel, who held India’s aviation portfolio when Air India ordered its fleet of Dreamliners, pointed out that Singapore Airlines remains a 25.1 % stakeholder in Air India and plays a key role in widebody aircraft maintenance. In a post on X, he expressed concern over the “deafening silence—or perhaps ignorance” from the airline in the aftermath of the tragedy.
He noted that Singapore Airlines has representation on Air India’s board and maintains a codeshare agreement. Additionally, Air India’s chief executive, Campbell Wilson, served previously at Singapore Airlines’ low-cost carrier Scoot and was nominated to Air India by the Singaporean carrier—the ties that Patel questioned in his comments.
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Singapore Airlines Responds with Condolences
After several days of public quiet, Singapore Airlines issued a formal statement, offering its deepest condolences to those affected. The airline said it remains “in close contact with our partner Tata Sons and Air India” and has pledged “full support and all necessary assistance” during the investigation process.
Industry observers suggest Patel’s remarks reflect growing public concern about accountability in aviation, particularly given Singapore Airlines’ joint role in aircraft upkeep and governance.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.