In the wake of last week’s tragic crash of Air India Flight AI 171, which killed 241 out of 242 people on board, the airline has found itself not only mourning the immense loss but also facing a fresh controversy—this time over the CEO’s condolence message.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson issued a video statement following the crash, delivering his message in a serious tone. However, social media users quickly noticed that several lines in his speech bore an uncanny resemblance to those spoken earlier this year by American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, after a similar aviation tragedy in the US.
Identical Lines Trigger Backlash
Among the phrases flagged by users were: “This is a difficult day for all of us… Our efforts are now focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, their families, and loved ones.”
Another section said: “I want to brief you on a serious accident.” “I know there are many questions and at this early stage, I’ll not be able to answer all of them, but I do want to share information I have at this time.”
Both speeches also included mentions of “emergency response efforts” and cooperation with authorities, prompting widespread speculation that Wilson may have copied the format—or even lifted directly from—Isom’s earlier remarks.
Robert Isom had delivered his statement in January 2025 after a fatal mid-air collision between an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., which claimed at least 67 lives.
Who Is Robert Isom?
Robert Isom has served as CEO of American Airlines and its parent company since March 2022. Before that, he held several senior roles, including President of American Airlines from 2016 to 2022 and Chief Operating Officer at both American and US Airways. With past stints at GMAC, Northwest Airlines, and Procter & Gamble, Isom has had a long-standing career in aviation and business strategy.
He is currently a leading voice in the global aviation industry, serving as Chairman of the oneworld Alliance Governing Board and holding key positions on the Airlines for America Board and the International Air Transport Association’s Board of Governors.
Public Opinion Divided: Plagiarism or Protocol?
Social media erupted over the eerily similar statements. One user wrote, “So Air India boss even copied the condolence message? What competence!”
Another commented, “Is it plagiarism, or perhaps they both used the same consultants/AI?”
A more critical voice said, “Crisis communication demands authenticity. The striking similarities between Campbell Wilson’s statement and Robert Isom’s speech raise serious concerns about corporate messaging. In times of tragedy, sincerity matters more than scripted responses.”
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However, many defended the Air India CEO, arguing that such statements often follow a globally accepted format during disasters. “Is it really plagiarism? The SOPs in such situations are common… using similar/same verbatim to express thoughts is common too,” one person reasoned.
“These are standard communication guidelines followed by leaders during such unforeseen accidents. We should rather focus our thoughts and prayers on the grieving families,” another user urged.
Focus Shifts to Aviation Safety
While the plagiarism debate rages online, others are calling for deeper attention on aviation safety. “For the curious minds: how such an accident happened despite tech advancements is where we need to focus,” someone pointed out.
The Air India tragedy, which occurred seconds after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, has left the nation grieving and raised tough questions about the airline’s safety protocols.