New Delhi, June 28 – In the wake of the devastating Air India plane crash on June 12, which claimed the lives of numerous passengers, a shocking incident has surfaced that has sparked national outrage. While grieving families awaited the return of their loved ones’ remains, a viral video on social media showed employees of AISATS – a ground-handling and airport services partner of Air India – partying in their office.
The insensitive celebration drew sharp criticism from the public, prompting AISATS to take strict disciplinary action. The company has terminated four senior staff members who were seen participating in the gathering.
According to sources, the video was filmed just days after the crash and quickly gained traction online. In it, AISATS employees can be seen engaging in a casual office party, seemingly indifferent to the tragic event that had shocked the entire nation. The video’s timing and tone led to a massive backlash on social media, where users accused the company of being “inhuman and lacking empathy.”
Responding to the outrage, AISATS released a statement saying,
“We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and deeply regret the incident. As a company, we are committed to the highest standards of professionalism and responsibility.”
AISATS (Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd.) is a 50:50 joint venture between Air India Limited and Singapore-based SATS Ltd, providing ground handling and food services at several major airports in India.
It has only been a few days since the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash.
— Squint Neon (@TheSquind) June 22, 2025
Many families have not yet been able to see their loved ones for the last time; several bodies have still not been handed over.
Grief hangs heavy in households, funeral pyres are yet to cool. And at such a… pic.twitter.com/rrlekBNAeD
Despite the company’s apology, the damage to its reputation has been significant. Social media platforms were flooded with critical remarks. One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote:
“259 people died in the crash, and these employees were celebrating? What kind of corporate culture allows this?”
Another post read:
“At a time when the country is mourning, such behavior is not just insensitive – it’s disgraceful.”
The incident has once again raised questions about corporate accountability and emotional intelligence in times of national crisis. As the investigation into the crash continues, the company now faces pressure not only to support affected families but also to introspect and reform internal culture.
