Why the deafening silence, SQ? Praful Patel questions Singapore Airlines' silence after Air India crash

ANI June 18, 2025 218 views

Former Aviation Minister Praful Patel has called out Singapore Airlines for its silence following the deadly Air India crash. He pointed out Singapore Airlines' significant stake in Air India and its role in aircraft maintenance. Patel also highlighted that Air India's CEO, Campbell Wilson, was nominated by Singapore Airlines. The crash, which killed 241 people, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, remains under investigation.

"Why this deafening silence, SQ?" – Praful Patel
New Delhi, June 18: Days after the tragic Air India plane crash that claimed over 241 lives, former Union Minister of State (MoS) of Civil Aviation and NCP MP, Praful Patel, on Wednesday questioned the silence of Singapore Airlines (SQ).

Key Points

1

Praful Patel highlights Singapore Airlines' role in Air India management

2

Notes CEO Campbell Wilson's Scoot Airlines background

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Questions lack of response from major stakeholder

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Crash claimed 241 lives including ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

In a post on the social media platform X, Patel stated that Singapore Airlines is not only a significant shareholder in Air India but also plays a key role in maintaining the airline's wide-body aircraft. He also noted that Air India's current CEO, Campbell Wilson, was nominated by Singapore Airlines and previously served as CEO of its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot Airlines.

"In all the sorrow and din surrounding the Air India crash, there remains a surprising silence -- or perhaps ignorance -- about the role of a substantial shareholder, and the entity responsible for maintaining a large number, if not all, of Air India's wide-body aircraft. Guess the name: Singapore Airlines," Patel wrote on X.

https://x.com/praful_patel/status/1935171810246406235

"They seem to be in hiding. Let's not forget--they have a say in management and a codeshare agreement with Air India. Importantly, Campbell Wilson, the CEO of Air India, is a nominee of Singapore Airlines. He previously served as CEO of their low-cost subsidiary, Scoot Airlines. Why this deafening silence, SQ?" the added.

Earlier today, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi announced that 184 DNA samples have been matched so far after the tragic London-bound Air India plane crash.

In a post on the social media platform X, Sanghavi wrote, "Air India crash update: As of 8 am, 184 DNA have been matched."

DNA testing is being conducted by forensic teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU).

The crash occurred on June 12, when a London-bound Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed into a hostel complex of BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area of Gujarat's Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, The tragedy claimed 241 lives out of 242 onboard, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
Praful Patel raises valid concerns. When a partner airline has such deep involvement in management and maintenance, their silence is indeed questionable. This isn't about blame but about accountability. Singapore Airlines should at least issue a statement of condolence. 🇮🇳✈️
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Priya M.
While I understand the emotions, let's not jump to conclusions before the investigation is complete. Aircraft maintenance is a complex process with multiple checks. Singapore Airlines may be waiting for official reports before commenting. The focus should be on supporting victims' families now.
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Amit S.
This tragedy shows we need more transparency in aviation partnerships. Air India should have full control over maintenance if foreign partners won't stand by during crises. "Atmanirbhar Bharat" should extend to aviation safety too!
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Sunita R.
Heartbreaking tragedy 😢 But Praful Patel's timing seems political. Where was this concern when he was Aviation Minister during previous accidents? First priority should be victim families, not scoring points. Let's show some "sanskaar" in difficult times.
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Vikram J.
As someone who flies frequently, this makes me nervous about code-share agreements. If Singapore Airlines is responsible for maintenance, they owe passengers an explanation about safety protocols. Their silence damages trust in both airlines.
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Neha P.
The focus should be on improving safety, not finger-pointing. Whether it's Singapore Airlines or Indian authorities, we need thorough investigation and better systems. My prayers for all affected families 🙏

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Tags:
Air India crash Singapore Airlines Praful Patel Campbell Wilson Vijay Rupani aviation tragedy