Singapore Airlines has increased its operational involvement in Air India by placing staff into key roles across the airline, according to media reports.
Citing sources, Bloomberg reported that Singapore Airlines has moved some of its employees into positions covering flight operations, engineering and maintenance in recent months. The move marks a shift toward a more hands-on role for the carrier, which holds a minority stake in Air India.
The report said Singapore Airlines, known for its high operational standards, is taking on greater responsibility in these areas, while majority owner Tata Group continues to focus on commercial, human resources, finance and information technology functions. Tata Group owns 74.9 per cent of Air India while Singapore Airlines has a 25.1% stake in the carrier.
The increased involvement comes as Air India’s turnaround efforts prove more complex and costly than initially expected following its acquisition by Tata Group in 2021. The airline has been dealing with a series of operational and regulatory challenges, including safety concerns and compliance issues highlighted by European regulators.
The shift in responsibilities is also said to have accelerated following last year’s fatal Dreamliner crash, which led to heightened scrutiny of the airline’s engineering and operational practices, according to the report.
A spokesperson for Singapore Airlines told Bloomberg that the airline has been working closely with Tata Sons to support Air India’s transformation programme since becoming a significant minority partner.
The development comes at a critical time for Air India, which is navigating record financial losses and a leadership transition. According to reports, Singapore Airlines chief executive Goh Choon Phong recently met Tata Group chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran in Mumbai to discuss funding plans and the search for a new chief executive.
Air India is currently seeking a successor to Campbell Wilson, who has announced his resignation, adding further uncertainty to the airline’s restructuring efforts.
Analysts have described Air India’s revival as one of the most ambitious turnaround programmes in global aviation, with the latest developments highlighting the increasing role of Singapore Airlines in supporting operational improvements as the carrier seeks to stabilise performance.