Air India is bracing for its biggest annual loss on record, with internal estimates suggesting losses of at least Rs 15,000 crore for the financial year ending March 31. The setback follows last year’s fatal Dreamliner crash and extended airspace restrictions that significantly increased operating costs and disrupted international routes.
The financial strain deepened after Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian carriers following a military flare-up, forcing Air India to take longer and more expensive flight paths to Europe and the United States. These developments reversed the airline’s gradual progress toward operational stability, with management now conceding that plans to break even this fiscal year are no longer achievable.
India’s aviation sector has faced a turbulent year marked by weakened passenger confidence, repeated flight disruptions, and cancellations at a rival airline, reviving concerns about the industry’s fragile structure. Regulatory filings show Air India has accumulated losses of over Rs 32,000 crore in the past three financial years, while the airline has already sought additional funding support in excess of Rs 10,000 crore.
The deepening losses have also unsettled Air India’s owners. Tata Group has reportedly begun searching for a successor to outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson, though leadership decisions may depend on the findings of the official crash investigation. Singapore Airlines, which holds a 25.1% stake following the Vistara merger, has seen its earnings impacted as it continues to support restructuring and in-house maintenance initiatives.
While a five-year recovery plan submitted to the board projected profitability only from the third year, it was rejected in favour of a more aggressive turnaround strategy. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Air India can regain momentum amid mounting financial and operational challenges.
