New Delhi: Former Union civil aviation minister Praful Patel has strongly criticised Singapore Airlines (SIA) for its lack of public response following the deadly crash of Air India flight AI171 on 12 June.

The Dreamliner aircraft, operating the Ahmedabad–London route, crashed shortly after takeoff, killing all 241 passengers and crew on board—marking one of the worst air disasters involving an Indian carrier in recent history.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Patel questioned the absence of any public statement from SIA, which holds a 25.1% stake in Air India and is involved in maintaining the airline’s wide-body fleet. “There remains a surprising silence — or perhaps ignorance — about the role of a substantial shareholder,” he wrote, adding, “Guess the name: Singapore Airlines…They seem to be in hiding.”

He further highlighted that Singapore Airlines has an influential role in Air India’s management. He pointed out that Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, is a nominee of SIA and previously served as the head of its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot. “Let’s not forget — they have a say in management and a codeshare agreement with Air India,” Patel noted, before concluding his post with: “Why this deafening silence, SQ?”

Responding to the controversy, a spokesperson from Singapore Airlines told Business Standard that the group had been “in close contact” with Tata Sons and Air India and was providing “full support and all necessary assistance” following the crash.

This is not the first time Patel has voiced concerns about operations at Air India. Earlier, he had said the Tata Group must “fine-tune key aspects” of the airline’s performance, particularly following privatisation and the new joint venture with Singapore Airlines formed in 2022.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently investigating the crash and has summoned Air India officials for further details, including pilot training records and information about the aircraft dispatcher.

Patel, a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), served as India’s Civil Aviation Minister between 2004 and 2011.