CHENNAI, Jan 4: N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, stated on Saturday that the company is entirely dedicated to transforming Air India into a premier airline, providing outstanding service and performance worldwide.
In 2022, Tata Group took over Air India after the government reached a share purchase agreement with Tata Sons, finalizing the sale for Rs 18,000 crore.
Chandrasekaran addressed a question during an informal discussion with Ravi Viswanathan, Managing Director of TVS Supply Chain Solutions Ltd, at the Global Alumni Meet of NIT Trichy, regarding expectations for Air India post-acquisition in 2022.
“I am fully committed to making Air India a world-class airline. From the hardware to flight experiences, customer service, technology, and all aspects of the operation,” he expressed.
In a humorous moment, he encouraged the audience to push aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus to fulfill their aircraft orders for Air India.
“You all should assist me by urging Boeing and Airbus to deliver the planes,” he remarked.
The Air India Group has placed a total order for 470 aircraft, comprising 250 from Airbus and 220 from Boeing. In December 2024, Air India placed an additional order for 100 wide-body A350 planes and 90 narrow-body A320 aircraft, including the A321 neo.
In response to another question from Viswanathan about the semiconductor industry, Chandrasekaran mentioned significant opportunities, citing that Tata Sons’ involvement in the semiconductor sector amounts to around USD 18 billion in precision manufacturing, semiconductor assembly, and testing.
“Our semiconductor fabrication facility is expected to be operational by 2026. Hence, whether it’s in the energy sector or semiconductors, we’ve made significant progress. We aim to develop a comprehensive ecosystem in the semiconductor sector, with thousands of companies expected to emerge in the next 18-24 months,” he commented.
He stressed the necessity for a dedicated and consistent approach in the semiconductor industry, in tandem with supportive government policies. “Increased investments and research efforts are essential. Academic institutions need to engage in the semiconductor sector. It’s a long journey ahead,” he added. (PTI)
