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Hindustan Times
12-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Want a career in India's soaring aviation and logistics sectors? Read this interview of AISATS CEO Ramanathan Rajamani
With India emerging as one of the world's largest aviation markets and its logistics sector projected to cross USD 350 billion by 2030, the demand for skilled professionals in ground handling, air cargo, and supply chain operations is skyrocketing. In this exclusive interview, Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO of AISATS (Air India SATS), shares insights on the sector's growth outlook, emerging career opportunities, essential skills for aspiring professionals, and how the AISATS Training Academy is helping shape a future-ready workforce. Whether you're a student, job seeker, or an educator, this conversation offers valuable guidance on tapping into one of the most dynamic and future-proof industries in India and beyond. The aviation and logistics sectors offer a wide spectrum of career paths catering to various skill levels and interests, making them highly attractive for students and young professionals in India. (REUTERS/File) What is the projected growth of the aviation and logistics sector in India and the wider South Asian/Middle Eastern region over the next few years? India's aviation and logistics sectors are witnessing an unprecedented growth trajectory driven by strong economic fundamentals, demographic trends, and proactive government policies. Specifically, passenger traffic in India is forecasted to grow from around 193 million in 2023 to over 250 million by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.3%. Parallelly, India's logistics sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% and is expected to reach USD 357.3 billion by 2030. The broader South Asian and Middle Eastern regions are also expanding rapidly. The Middle East aviation market is expected to grow at around 4.4% CAGR through 2030, supported by its role as a global transit hub. South Asia is forecast as the fastest-growing aviation market globally, with a CAGR close to 9.5% between 2023 and 2027. What types of career opportunities are expected to emerge in aviation and logistics, especially for students and young professionals from India? The aviation and logistics sectors offer a wide spectrum of career paths catering to various skill levels and interests, making them highly attractive for students and young professionals in India. The industry demands skilled talent in managerial, technical, and operational domains. In aviation ground handling, senior-level roles overseeing ground operations, safety, quality assurance, compliance etc. are pivotal. Entry-level and support roles are equally critical, including Ramp Agents who facilitate aircraft movements on the ground, Baggage Handlers responsible for loading and unloading luggage, Customer Service Agents assisting passengers, and Load Control Specialists who ensure proper cargo weight and balance documentation. Additionally, the rise of logistics parks and multimodal cargo hubs has created new jobs in air cargo logistics, warehousing management, inventory control, cold chain logistics, and supply chain technology. What are the most essential skills, certifications, or qualifications that Indian students should focus on to build successful careers in this sector? To build successful careers in the aviation ground handling and logistics sectors, students must develop a balanced combination of technical knowledge, relevant certifications, and strong interpersonal skills. Mastery of ground handling operations, cargo management systems, aviation safety protocols etc. form the technical foundation required. Additionally, familiarity with evolving technologies such as AI, IoT, and automation is becoming increasingly important to stay competitive in this fast-changing industry. Certifications from globally recognised bodies like IATA and the Logistics Sector Skill Council (LSSC) greatly enhance a candidate's employability. At AISATS, our Training Academy offers industry-aligned training programs that emphasise practical skills, safety standards, and operational excellence etc. helping bridge the gap between academic theory and industry expectations. Alongside technical expertise, our training academy also helps candidates develop the necessary soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management etc. for ensuring smooth operations and positive passenger experiences. While many entry-level roles allow for a Class 12 qualification, higher-level positions often demand bachelors or master's degrees in logistics, supply chain management, or related fields. What makes aviation and logistics an attractive and future-proof career path for Indian students today? Aviation and logistics offer robust career opportunities fuelled by sector growth, technological innovation, and global integration. These industries provide stability through continuous demand for skilled professionals across all operational levels. Career progression is substantial, with clear pathways from entry-level operational roles to managerial and specialist functions. The sectors also offer diverse cross-industry mobility skills learned in logistics and aviation that transfer well to supply chain management, e-commerce, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors. Technological advancements in automation, AI, and data analytics present exciting opportunities to work with cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of transport and trade. Moreover, aviation and logistics roles often involve multicultural, international exposure, fostering global career growth and personal development. How does AISATS' Training Academy contribute to skill development for aviation and logistics roles? Playing a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical education and practical skills, the AISATS Training Academy delivers hands-on learning that equips students with the ability to tackle real-world challenges in ground support operations and customer service excellence. Beyond technical competencies, the academy prioritises the development of essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership, all of which are vital in the fast-paced, service-driven environment of aviation and logistics. Our presence across 6 airports in India enables us to provide robust placement opportunities, facilitating a seamless transition from training to employment. Moreover, the curriculum is regularly updated based on continuous feedback from industry stakeholders to ensure alignment with evolving technologies and operational standards. This approach ensures that graduates are not only job-ready but also equipped to drive innovation and uphold the highest standards of operational excellence in the sector. What is the typical salary range for fresh graduates entering the aviation and logistics sectors in India or the region? While exact salary figures vary by role, location, and employer, fresh graduates can expect competitive entry-level salaries that increase with experience, specialisation, and responsibility. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance, travel allowances, and performance incentives. The sectors reward ongoing skill development and professional certifications, making them attractive for aspirants seeking long-term, upwardly mobile careers with increasing financial returns. What kind of career growth can students expect within the first 4–5 years after entering the field, both in India and in overseas roles? New entrants typically experience rapid career advancement, moving from operational roles to supervisory and managerial positions within 4–5 years, based on their performance and commitment towards growth. Opportunities may also arise in specialised areas such as safety compliance, quality assurance, technology integration, supply chain strategy, business development etc. International assignments are also common, given the global nature of aviation and logistics. Career mobility within these sectors is significant, supported by continuous learning and professional development. How can educational institutions in India better align their programs with the evolving demands of the aviation and logistics sectors? Educational institutions in India have a pivotal role to play in preparing the workforce for the future of aviation and logistics, sectors that are integral to the nation's economic progress. By forging deeper, strategic partnerships with industry leaders, academic programs can be designed to emphasise hands-on practical skills, mastery of emerging technologies, and the essential soft skills needed to thrive in this fast-evolving landscape. Incorporating internships, live industry projects, and simulation-based training will empower students to bridge classroom learning with real-world applications, ensuring they are ready to meet the dynamic demands of these critical sectors. Regularly updating curricula based on ongoing industry feedback will equip students to navigate challenges posed by digitisation, automation, and increasingly complex global supply chains confidently. Beyond books & screens: A wake-up call for the future of education Finally, what additional insights would you like to share about the strategic importance of the aviation and logistics sectors, especially in the context of India's economic growth and global positioning? Aviation and logistics underpin India's economic growth, enabling trade, tourism, and regional development. Investments in airport modernisation, freight corridors, and logistics parks are creating resilient, efficient infrastructure that strengthens India's global connectivity. These sectors are critical in implementing the government's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by facilitating exports and supporting manufacturing. Careers in these fields offer aspirants a meaningful opportunity to contribute to India's transformation as a global economic power.
Arab Times
28-06-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Air India fires executives after party video sparks outrage post-crash
NEW DELHI, India, June 28: Four senior executives at Air India SATS (AISATS) have been asked to step down after a video of an office party went viral, drawing widespread condemnation. The controversy erupted just days after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 on June 12, 2025, which claimed 270 lives and plunged the nation into mourning. The video, widely shared on social media, showed AISATS Chief Operating Officer Abraham Zachariah and several other employees dancing to loud music during a celebration at the company's Gurugram office. The timing of the event, so soon after one of India's most devastating aviation disasters, was criticized as highly inappropriate and lacking compassion. Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff, striking a hostel at Ahmedabad's BJ Medical College. Of the 260 people onboard, only one passenger survived. As grieving families awaited the return of their loved ones' remains, the video prompted a wave of outrage online, with many accusing the company of insensitivity and poor judgment. In response to the backlash, AISATS released an official statement: "At AISATS, we stand in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic loss of AI171 and deeply regret the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video. The behaviour does not align with our values, and firm disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible as we reaffirm our commitment to empathy, professionalism, and accountability." While the company did not confirm the exact date of the party, sources stated that four senior employees were dismissed for their involvement in organizing the event. AISATS is a joint venture between Air India—now under the ownership of the Tata Group—and Singapore-based SATS Ltd., a prominent global provider of airport services.
News18
28-06-2025
- Business
- News18
Air India Venture Sacks 4 Senior Staff For Office Party Days After Ahmedabad Crash
Last Updated: The party was reportedly hosted at AISATS' Gurugram office just days after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad Four senior executives of Air India SATS, the airport gateway services provider for the airline, were terminated from their services after a video showing employees partying in the workplace in the backdrop of the fatal Air India plane crash went viral on social media, which elicited criticism from various quarters. However, the company did not mention the date when the party took place, but the party was reportedly hosted at AISATS' Gurugram office just days after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 275 people. What's In The Video? The now-viral video purportedly showed the company's Chief Operating Officer, Abraham Zachariah, dancing alongside staff members as upbeat music plays in the background. The timing of the celebration has been widely condemned, with many calling it insensitive given that families of crash victims were still awaiting the return of their loved ones' bodies. It has only been a few days since the tragic Ahmedabad plane 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… — Squint Neon (@TheSquind) June 22, 2025 Reportedly, four senior employees—including SVP Sampreet, SVP Baljinder, the Training Head, and COO Abraham Zacariah—have been asked to resign. The company's top leadership has also issued a warning to other employees against engaging in such irresponsible conduct in the workplace. 'At AISATS, we stand in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic loss of AI 171 and deeply regret the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video. The behaviour does not align with our values, and firm disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible as we reaffirm our commitment to empathy, professionalism, and accountability," the company said in the statement, as reported by news agency PTI. Ahmedabad Plane Crash India witnessed one of its worst aviation tragedies on Thursday after a London-bound Air India plane, carrying 242 passengers and crew, including former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, crashed into a medical college complex shortly after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport. 241 out of 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 (AI 171) and 34 on the ground, were killed in the crash. The deceased include 120 men, 124 women, and 16 children. So far, 256 bodies have been handed over to their families, while the DNA identification process for the remaining remains ongoing. One person survived the tragedy. The lone survivor was identified as Indian-origin British national Vishwash Kumar Ramesh who was returning to the UK with his brother Ajay Kumar Rakesh, 45, who was in a different row inside the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. The Gujarat health department gave the official figure of casualties of the tragedy. The announcement of the death toll was delayed as authorities were verifying the DNA matches of those who lost their lives in the tragedy. Many bodies were charred beyond recognition as the aircraft burst into flames or were damaged on impact. The aircraft had 232 passengers and 10 crew members, including 169 Indians, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese and a Canadian, on board.
Time of India
28-06-2025
- Time of India
Tatas suspend 4 after Air India SATS party video sparks outrage
MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: Following public backlash over a video showing SATS executives partying in their Gurugram office shortly after the June 12 Air India flight 171 crash, has taken disciplinary action against several people. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Four senior officials were suspended from Air India SATS, while multiple others were issued a warning, the company said on Friday. The video, which garnered over 3.8 million views on X, captured several executives dancing with loud music playing during a celebration at Air India SATS's Gurugram premises on June 20. The celebration was widely criticised as inappropriate and inconsiderate, particularly as affected families were still mourning. The AI-171 crash on June 12 resulted in fatalities of all crew members and passengers except one, along with casualties on the ground. "Air India SATS deeply regrets the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video," said a spokesperson of the company. "The behaviour does not align with our values, and firm disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible," the spokesperson added.
News18
24-06-2025
- Business
- News18
Watch: Air India SATS Executives Danced At Office Party Days After Ahmedabad Crash
Last Updated: The event, which took place on June 20, was attended by several top company executives. A video of senior officials of Air India SATS (AISATS) dancing at a DJ party held inside their Gurugram office has gone viral on social media. The clip has sparked public outrage, especially because it surfaced days after the tragic crash of Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 274 people. Many are calling the celebration insensitive and poorly timed. AISATS is a company formed as a partnership between Air India Limited (part of the Tata Group) and Singapore-based SATS Limited. It handles airport ground services at various airports across India. According to a report by the news agency IANS, the DJ party at the Gurugram office took place on June 20 and was attended by several top executives. Among them were Sampreet Kotian, General Manager of Bengaluru International Airport Limited, as well as AISATS Chief Operating Officer (COO) Abraham Zakaria and the company's Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The video quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), triggering a strong backlash from the public. Many found the timing of the celebration highly insensitive, as it happened while families of the crash victims were still grieving and waiting to receive the remains of their loved ones. Take a look at the video here: By June 20, of the 220 bodies that had been identified, only 202 had been reportedly handed over to the families. As per IANS, AISATS was in charge of ground handling services at Delhi Airport and was also responsible for preparing the load sheet for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick—the same flight that tragically crashed. As the video began to circulate widely, AISATS responded with an official statement. Speaking to IANS, the company said it was aware of the video being shared online but claimed it was being taken out of context. AISATS added, 'AISATS is aware of a video being circulated on social media that unfortunately is completely out of context. Notwithstanding, we sincerely regret any emotional discomfort this may have caused." However, the company's apology has done little to ease public outrage. A user said, 'Air India, you should be ashamed of yourselves. I hope you clowns are grounded." Another commented, 'How could they? Even if it was planned earlier. It could've been postponed." 'Pathetic & highly insensitive," an individual wrote on X. 'This is not expected," another user remarked. Many people feel that the video shows a disturbing lack of empathy and respect towards the victims of the crash and their grieving families.
