Following the Air India tragedy, Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran described it as the most painful crisis of his career and urged employees to remain b during this difficult time.
New Delhi: The Air India plane crash on June 12, 2025, shook not only the nation but the entire world. The accident, involving an Air India Dreamliner en route to London, resulted in the loss of over 270 lives. During this time of profound grief, Tata Sons and Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran addressed employees with an emotional appeal. He described it as the most painful moment of his career, emphasizing the need to overcome this pain, unite, and build a safer and more reliable airline for the future.
The Need for Unity in the Most Difficult of Times
In a special meeting at the Air India headquarters in Gurugram, N. Chandrasekaran addressed approximately 700 employees and the leadership team. He unequivocally stated that this moment, while incredibly painful, is also profoundly significant. Instead of retreating, he urged them to stand firm and transform this crisis into a renewed commitment. He highlighted that this tragedy tests not only the organization but also the very soul of their human institution.
Awaiting Investigation, but Commitment Remains
Chandrasekaran clarified the need to await the completion of the investigation before drawing any conclusions. While determining the cause of the accident is paramount, he stressed the importance of maintaining unwavering integrity and transparency in their work. He assured employees that every possible investigative procedure would be employed to get to the bottom of this tragic event.
Prioritizing Human Values
The Chairman emphasized that this is not the time to consider the company's next business move. Instead, it's an opportunity to demonstrate the collective sensitivity and humanity with which they can face this challenge. He affirmed that the families who lost loved ones would never be abandoned; they would always be considered part of the Air India family and would receive every possible support.
Inspection of Emergency Centers
Following the special meeting, N. Chandrasekaran visited Air India's emergency command center, integrated operations command center, and customer support center. He interacted with employees, listened to their feelings, and commended the composure and dedication shown by the team during this crisis. He stated that this is not a time for despair, but for resolving to build a new and safer airline.
Viewing Victims as Family
N. Chandrasekaran repeatedly stressed that those who lost their lives in the accident would forever be considered part of the Air India family. While acknowledging the irreplaceability of their loss, he emphasized the need to provide every possible assistance to their families and ensure they do not feel alone. He stressed that this emotional support must be demonstrated not only in words but also in actions.
Appeal to Employees
Chandrasekaran appealed to the employees, stating that the responsibility of rebuilding Air India rests on all of them. He framed this as an opportunity to make a difference through commitment, honesty, and sensitivity. He urged employees not to succumb to fear or uncertainty, but to move forward with courage and resolve.
A Glimpse of Emotional Leadership
N. Chandrasekaran's message exemplifies not only corporate leadership but also demonstrates how a sensitive leader can provide emotional support to their team during a crisis. He concluded by stating that Air India needs to be rebuilt not only as a business entity but as an organization that provides every passenger with a sense of security, trust, and empathy.
