The Tragedy: Air India Flight AI171 Crash
On June 12, Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Delhi Airport due to a technical malfunction. The accident claimed nearly 270 lives, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s history.
The Controversy: Celebration or Insensitivity?
Just eight days later, on June 20, a video surfaced online showing senior AISATS officials dancing at a DJ party held at their Gurugram office. The timing of this celebration, while families of the victims were still waiting for the final rites of their loved ones, ignited widespread public outrage.
About AISATS
AISATS is a joint venture between Air India Limited (Tata Group) and Singapore's SATS Limited, providing ground handling services at major Indian airports. On the day of the crash, AISATS was responsible for ground handling of flight AI171 at Delhi Airport.
Key Figures in the Video
The following senior executives were seen attending the party:
- Abraham Zakaria – Chief Operating Officer (COO)
- Sampreet Kotian – Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and General Manager, Bengaluru Airport
Their participation, especially given the timing, has drawn heavy criticism.
Corporate Response and Public Outcry
AISATS issued a statement expressing regret over the video, stating it had been “taken out of context.” Despite this, public anger continues, with many perceiving the actions as deeply insensitive.
Social Media Reactions
Has corporate empathy disappeared completely?”
270 people dead, and they’re partying?
Bigger Questions: Ethics and Accountability
This controversy has sparked wider debates—not just around the crash—but about corporate responsibility, leadership behavior, and the role of empathy during times of national mourning.