Tatas don’t think small: Dr. Mathew on Air India’s transformation

Ratan Tata’s decision to acquire Air India was driven by a combination of nostalgia, ambition and determination. Dr Thomas Mathew, author of Ratan Tata: A Life, emphasizes that the decision was partly emotional and rooted in the legacy of JRD Tata, who considered Air India to be the jewel in India’s aviation crown. JRD Tata’s ouster as chairman of Air India during the Morarji Desai era had a lasting impact and bringing back the ‘Maharaja’ into the Tata fold was a way to restore his legacy. Apart from the sentiments, Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran expressed confidence in Air India’s ability to transform it into a global aviation leader. With a penchant for large-scale projects, the Tatas are looking to upgrade their aircraft fleet and service quality, symbolizing Indian aviation excellence. Dr. Mathew emphasizes: “This is no longer the same Maharaja, this is a wounded one. But over time, they will be able to turn him into the epitome of success for Indian airlines.”