The story of Air India's Flight of Full Circle

T.R.Radhakrishnan | Last updated: 19 October 2021

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Air India has completed a full circle, returning to its original owners, the Tata conglomerate, on October 8, 2021. Founded by JRD Tata in 1932 as Tata Airlines, it became Air India in 1946. Nationalised in 1953, the airline faced significant financial and operational challenges over the decades. After years of losses and failed attempts at revival, the Indian government approved the privatisation of Air India, with Tata Sons' subsidiary Talace Private Limited acquiring a 100% stake.

October 8, 2021 is a memorable day for the 153 year old TATA conglomerate for having reclaimed their pioneer venture under took by its doyen of Indian aviation the revered and popularly known JRD TATA who put India on the commercial aviation map when he first piloted a the Havilland Puss Moth monopl

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FAQ :

Air India returned to Tata ownership on October 8, 2021.

Air India was founded by JRD Tata in 1932 as Tata Airlines.

Air India was nationalised in 1953 when the Government of India purchased a majority stake.

Air India was privatised due to decades of significant financial losses, operational challenges, and a need to prevent further deterioration of the national carrier.

Talace Private Limited, a subsidiary of Tata Sons, acquired a 100% stake in Air India.

The deal involved an offer of Rs. 18,000 crores, including a debt of Rs. 15,300 crores to be taken over by Tata Sons and a cash payment of Rs. 2,700 crores. The remaining debt of Rs. 61,562 crores would be borne by the government.