TLI Staff
New Delhi: National carrier Air India under new leadership seems more right politically than commercially. In a latest decision, the airline has painted Sikh religious symbol Ek Onkar on the tail of its aircraft that will fly between India and UK.
The move is aimed at marking the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
On the face of it the decision may appear harmless but given the religious diversity of the country, the airline may have stirred up hornet’s nest. This may trigger demand from various leaders to paint Air India aircraft with their religious symbols. As there are so many religious symbols and icons across the country, the list may just be endless.
“Air India should be neutral and focus on its commercial operations. It is an international airline and has good reputation globally. It should not take any decision that puts it in the dock. India is a diverse country. There have been great leaders across political spectrum. Tomorrow, if people demand a portrait of their leader on Air India tail wing then what would it do?” said a former bureaucrat.
Aviation experts said that international guidelines do not restrict airlines from painting any logo or brand promotion but questioned Air India’s decision.
“Air carriers across the world have been painting their aircraft to promote some brand but there is a sound commercial decision behind them. In case of Air India, it is doubtful if the decision is commercial. Most likely, it is not and hence there are more reasons to privatize it,” said an aviation industry expert.
Earlier this month, the airline had shown rare enthusiasm and painted one of its aircraft with the sketch of Mahatma Gandhi to commemorate his 150th birth anniversary. The move was seen more as endorsement to Modi government’s signature campaign of Swach Bharat.
Air India’s decision to increase frequency between Delhi and Nagpur (RSS headquarters) has not gone unnoticed either. In another controversial decision, Air India had stopped serving non-vegetarian food on its domestic flights.
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