Air India has been undergoing a significant transformation since its acquisition by Tata Group in 2022. The airline has been striving to reclaim its reputation as a world-class carrier, investing in fleet modernization, service improvements, and operational efficiency. However, recent events—including a tragic crash and a mid-air turnaround due to technical issues—have cast a shadow over its ambitious turnaround plans.
The Recent Flight Turnaround Incident
On June 16, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating Flight AI315 from Hong Kong to New Delhi, was forced to return to its origin due to a suspected technical issue. The pilots, citing safety concerns, informed Hong Kong Air Traffic Control that they preferred to stay closer to Hong Kong rather than continue the journey. The aircraft landed safely back at Hong Kong International Airport, and necessary checks were initiated to diagnose the problem.
This incident comes just days after the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, which resulted in 241 fatalities. The crash has intensified scrutiny on Air India’s fleet maintenance and operational protocols, raising concerns about the airline’s ability to execute its turnaround strategy effectively.
Air India’s Turnaround Strategy
Since Tata Group’s takeover, Air India has been focused on revamping its operations. The airline has placed large orders for new aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, redesigned its branding, and improved customer service standards. The goal is to position Air India as a competitive global airline, capable of challenging industry leaders like Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways.
However, the recent incidents have raised questions about whether the airline’s focus on rebranding has come at the expense of addressing core operational issues. Aviation experts have pointed out that Air India’s fleet maintenance and service quality need urgent attention to ensure passenger safety and confidence.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Actions
Following the Ahmedabad crash, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered Air India to conduct additional safety checks on its Boeing 787 fleet. The airline has completed inspections on nine aircraft and is working on the remaining 24 planes. These checks may lead to delays on long-haul routes, particularly those with airport curfews.
Passengers have expressed concerns about Air India’s safety record, with many taking to social media to share negative experiences related to flight delays, broken seats, and poor in-flight service. The airline’s reputation has taken a hit, and regaining public trust will be a crucial aspect of its turnaround efforts.
The airline’s market share has increased from 24.7% in 2022 to 27.2% in April 2025, indicating some progress in winning back customers. However, it still lags behind its biggest domestic competitor, IndiGo, which holds a dominant 64.1% market share.
To successfully execute its turnaround strategy, Air India must prioritize:
- Fleet Maintenance: Ensuring rigorous safety checks and timely aircraft upgrades.
- Operational Efficiency: Reducing flight delays and improving service reliability.
- Customer Experience: Addressing passenger concerns and enhancing in-flight services.
- Brand Reputation: Rebuilding trust through transparency and consistent quality improvements.
The coming months will be critical for Air India as it navigates these challenges. While the airline has ambitious goals, its ability to balance growth with safety and reliability will determine whether it can truly reclaim its status as India’s premier international carrier.
