Deep regret: Air India condemns viral celebration video days after crash

Airport services management firm Air India SATS Services (AISATS) has expressed regret over a viral video showing its employees dancing and celebrating at the office, allegedly after the fatal Air India AI 171 crash in Ahmedabad. The company has taken disciplinary action, dismissing four senior executives involved in hosting the gathering.

A video recently surfaced on social media showing employees of AISATS, Air India’s ground-handling joint venture with Singapore’s SATS Ltd, engaging in celebrations at their office. While the company did not specify when the video was recorded, it is believed to have been shot days after the June 12 tragedy.

In a statement released on Friday, AISATS said, "At AISATS, we stand in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic loss of AI 171 and deeply regret the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video. The behaviour does not align with our values, and firm disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible as we reaffirm our commitment to empathy, professionalism, and accountability."

The company terminated four senior executives for their direct role in organising the office celebration.

The AI 171 crash in Ahmedabad claimed 270 lives, including 241 passengers on board. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, bound for London Gatwick, crashed into a medical hostel complex shortly after take-off. Only one passenger survived the incident.

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