That’s a comprehensive and fascinating summary of Air India’s remarkable journey! Here’s a more structured and detailed version that highlights its historic milestones, global significance, and humanitarian role:
Founded: 15 October 1932 by Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhoy (J.R.D.) Tata
Original Name: Tata Airlines
First Flight: Karachi to Bombay, flown by J.R.D. Tata himself in a single-engine Puss Moth aircraft.
Renamed: Air India in 1946 when it became a public company
Nationalization: In 1953, the Government of India nationalized the airline, turning it into a government-owned enterprise.
World’s First All-Jet Airline: In 1962, Air India became the first airline in the world to operate only jet aircraft.
Fleet and Reach: As of today, Air India operates:
Over 100 destinations: both domestic and international
A mix of aircraft including Boeing 777s, 787 Dreamliners, and Airbus A320s
Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi
Air India carries the highest number of passengers from India to international destinations, especially to the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.
Operation Date: 13 August – 11 October 1990
Evacuees: Over 111,000 Indian nationals
Flights Operated: 488 flights
Route: Amman (Jordan) to Mumbai (India)
Recognition: Featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for conducting the largest civilian air evacuation in history at that time.
Mission Launch: 7 May 2020
Purpose: To evacuate Indian citizens stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Air India was the key operator, flying Indians home from over 50 countries during lockdowns and global travel restrictions.
Previously Government-Owned, but as of January 2022, Air India was officially acquired by Tata Group, returning to its original founder’s legacy after nearly 69 years.
Mascot: The iconic “Maharaja” – a turbaned royal character symbolizing luxury and service. Slogan: “Truly Indian”
