WP MP Kenneth Tiong Questions S$1.9b Air India Funding; Netizens Rally Behind Him

Workers' Party MP Kenneth Tiong has criticised the prospect of using Temasek funds to support Air India, after the Indian carrier reportedly sought about S$19 billion in fresh funding from its owners, including Singapore Airlines (SIA), in which Temasek is the largest shareholder.

Tiong said Singapore should not be expected to continue supporting Air India, questioning whether further funding would be in Singapore's interests.

SIA owns about 25% of Air India and would be expected to contribute its share if the proposed funding goes ahead. However, no decision has been made on the request.

SIA first announced its investment in Air India in November 2022, when it agreed to invest US$250 million (about S$360 million) as part of the planned merger between Air India and Vistara.

The merger was completed in November 2024.

The latest funding request comes amid mounting challenges for Air India following its 2024 merger with Vistara.

Air India and Air India Express reported combined losses of about US$2.33 billion (around S$3 billion) for the financial year ended March 2026, while SIA recorded a S$42 million share of losses from Air India in its latest quarter.

The airline has also faced operational and safety challenges, fleet refurbishment delays and disruption from geopolitical tensions.