The Tata group of airlines, which comprises Air India, Air India Express, and Vistara, made special in-flight announcements on Thursday to pay tribute to Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons. He passed away on Wednesday night in a Mumbai hospital at the age of 86. According to sources from ANI, these announcements were made on all flights operated by the airlines under the Tata Group.
In an internal memo to the staff of Tata Group’s airlines, Campbell Wilson, the CEO of Air India, expressed his sorrow over the news of Ratan Tata’s demise. He said, “Dear Air Indians, it is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Mr. Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons. In addition to the numerous, far-reaching, and significant contributions our Chairman Mr. N Chandrasekaran has recognized, Air Indians are especially appreciative of Mr. Tata’s immense impact on Indian aviation and his role in the Tata airlines. On behalf of all Air Indians, past and present, we offer our deepest condolences and respect to the Tata family and all those affected by his passing.”
Passengers on Air India flights captured the announcements in tribute to Ratan Tata, sharing videos of the moving moment on social media platforms, where they quickly gained attention.
The news of Ratan Tata’s death sparked an outpouring of tributes from leaders across India. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the chief ministers of numerous states expressed their condolences and respect for the legacy Ratan Tata leaves behind.
In recognition of his immense contributions, the Gujarat government declared a day of mourning in his honor. During this period, the national flag was flown at half-mast, and all government-organized cultural and entertainment programs scheduled for Thursday were canceled as a mark of respect. Similarly, the Maharashtra government also declared a day of mourning.
Ratan Tata, born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, was a highly respected industrialist and philanthropist. He was the Chairman of two of India’s largest private-sector-promoted philanthropic organizations—the Ratan Tata Trust and the Dorabji Tata Trust. He played a pivotal role in shaping the Tata Group, having served as the Chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the group, from 1991 until his retirement in 2012. After stepping down from his leadership role, he was appointed Chairman Emeritus in recognition of his lasting contributions to the company and the nation.
Ratan Tata’s leadership extended beyond the business world. He was instrumental in advancing Tata Group’s global presence and was known for his ethical business practices, innovation, and philanthropy. He also oversaw major initiatives such as Tata Motors’ acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover and the launch of the Tata Nano, which aimed to provide affordable cars to millions of Indians.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and contributions to the country, Ratan Tata was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in 2008. His vision, humility, and dedication to improving the lives of people across the country have left an enduring legacy.
As tributes continue to pour in from all corners of the country and beyond, Ratan Tata’s impact on Indian industry and society will be remembered for generations.
