a day ago
Indian media reported that 100 Air India pilots offered deputation roles in SIA's low-cost brand Scoot
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has launched a deputation initiative inviting over 100 pilots from Air India (AI) to join its low‑cost arm, Scoot.
Based at Changi Airport, the move offers captains and first officers a one‑ to two‑year voluntary posting involving training and flying of Embraer aircraft—types not currently used by Air India.
This scheme, reported by Hindu BusinessLine on 8 June, is part of a broader effort by SIA and Air India to deepen collaboration in sales, operations and pilot talent deployment.
The announcement coincided with growing ties following SIA's minority investment in Air India through Tata Sons.
Deputation roles open to 100 pilots
Approximately 100 captain and first officer positions have been made available, subject to voluntary application.
The roles, lasting one to two years, allow Air India pilots to gain exposure to international operations and Embraer-type training, while enabling Scoot to fill pilot shortages.
Campbell Wilson, Air India's managing director and chief executive, described the arrangement as a 'win‑win' for both carriers.
He noted SIA's involvement extends to senior executives Basil Kwauk and Hamish Maxwell supporting Air India's turnaround efforts, knowledge‑sharing sessions, and training hosted by SIA.
In a statement, Singapore Airlines emphasised its role as a significant minority shareholder in the newly merged Air India unit.
'We will continue to engage with the Tata group and Air India, contributing our expertise in specific areas that will be mutually beneficial, subject to regulatory restrictions,' the group said.
Scoot added that it 'actively seeks talent within and outside Singapore, focusing on attracting and retaining qualified individuals who align with our values and can contribute to Scoot's continued growth'.
Partnership built on deeper airline ties
The SIA–Tata partnership dates back to 2015 when SIA co‑founded Vistara with Tata Sons.
After Vistara's merger with Air India, SIA holds a 25.1% stake in the unified carrier. The two airlines have since maintained an extensive codeshare arrangement and integration of certain operations.
SIA's minority investment aligns with its multi‑hub strategy, allowing participation in India's growing aviation market while reinforcing Singapore's hub.
It also positions SIA to compete more effectively with Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways and Qantas on routes to Australia, Bali and New Zealand.
In the 2024‑25 financial year, SIA transported over 2.4 million passengers to and from India, with 65% either connecting via Singapore or flying directly.
SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong reaffirmed the airline's confidence in the Indian market, noting strong demand and emphasising prospects for closer collaboration with Air India .
Tragic backdrop: Air India Flight AI 171 crash
On 12 June 2025, Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, crashed near Ahmedabad shortly after take‑off.
The aircraft carried 242 people—230 passengers and 12 crew—destined for London Gatwick.
A devastating Mayday call was issued around 13:39 IST (08:09 GMT) before the plane plunged into a hostel belonging to B.J. Medical College.
The accident resulted in 241 fatalities on board and at least 28 on the ground, making the total death toll 269. Only one passenger, a British‑Indian man seated in 11A, miraculously survived.
The crash is under investigation by Indian authorities with support from the NTSB and FAA.
