Air India issues full refund to Indian-American CEO whose 'worst first-class cabin' video went viral

Anip Patel later revealed that Air India refunded him the full ticket price. (Image: @mondayswithmohan/Instagram)

Air India has issued a full refund to Anip Patel, CEO of CaPatel Investments, after his scathing review of the airline's business-class service gained widespread attention on social media. Patel shared his disappointing experience on a 15-hour flight from Chicago to New Delhi via Instagram and TikTok, calling it one of the worst business-class journeys he had ever taken. His post, which quickly went viral, criticised various aspects of the flight, from the poor state of the cabin to substandard amenities.

In the video, Patel showcased several issues within the first-class cabin, pointing out torn and stained upholstery, loose compartments, and unsatisfactory cleanliness. He also criticised the non-functional in-flight entertainment for the entirety of the long-haul flight. Patel’s post drew significant public reaction, with many users echoing his concerns and expressing similar frustrations with the airline.

Patel also complained about the absence of WiFi aboard the aircraft. However, Air India informed that it has started providing WiFi between Delhi and London's Heathrow airport onboard the A350-900 plane for now, in a statement.

"I had heard negative things about Air India in the past, but I was hoping that under new management, things would have improved. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case," Patel stated in his Instagram post, cautioning passengers about the airline's services.

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The viral post prompted a wide range of reactions from social media users. Some supported Patel's criticisms, while others hoped that Air India's ongoing changes would improve its services.

"Would not even consider once flying with Air India even if they offer for free," a user commented. Another user wrote, "Emirates or Etihad to India. Avoid every other airline!"

"I scratched like something was crawling on me then, watching this video! I’m so sorry you experienced this," a third user added.

However, Patel later claimed that Air India refunded him the full ticket price of $6,300 (approximately Rs 5.2 lakh), without him having to lodge a formal complaint. "They made it right in the end," Patel shared in the comments, acknowledging the airline’s effort to resolve the issue.