Air India SATS (AISATS) has terminated four senior officials after a video of a private party held in Gurugram went viral on social media, triggering public outrage. The controversy erupted shortly after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 on June 12, 2025, which claimed the lives of 259 people. The nation was still reeling from the shock of the disaster when the video surfaced.
Top Officer Seen Dancing in Viral Clip
In the video, AISATS Chief Operating Officer Abraham Zachariah and several employees were seen dancing to loud music during a party. The timing of the celebration drew widespread criticism, with many people calling it insensitive and inappropriate, especially as the country was mourning one of the worst aviation tragedies in recent history.
Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had taken off for London but crashed shortly after takeoff near BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad, hitting a nearby hostel. Of the 260 people onboard, only one survived.
Backlash Grows as Families Await Victims’ Remains
The viral clip appeared while families of crash victims were still waiting for the remains of their loved ones. Public sentiment quickly turned against the company, with many accusing AISATS of lacking empathy and professionalism. The backlash on social media was swift, with users slamming the employees for celebrating during a period of national mourning.
Company Responds, Expresses Regret
In response to the outrage, AISATS issued an official statement expressing condolences and distancing itself from the actions of the employees. The statement read, “AISATS stands in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic AI171 incident. We deeply regret the video shared online. The behavior seen in the clip does not reflect the values of our organization. We have taken strict disciplinary action against those involved.”
Officials Terminated, But Party Date Unclear
While the company did not specify when the party took place, sources revealed that four senior staff members were dismissed for their role in organizing the gathering. AISATS stated that internal protocols were followed while taking action, but the damage to its reputation had already been done.
Public Outrage Continues Despite Action
Despite the company’s efforts to contain the fallout, criticism continues to mount. Many are questioning how such an event could be permitted so soon after a national tragedy. The incident has not only raised concerns about corporate sensitivity but also sparked a broader conversation about accountability during times of crisis.