There used to be a time when Air India was the pride of the country. Its Maharaja symbol was looked at with respect; one ex-maharaja is actually known to have congratulated an Air India Managing Director on his appointment to say that his royalty faded before the Maharaja of Air India.

Air India aircraft used to be neat and clean, the service was with a smile, and the young ladies employed as air hostesses were really distinguished in demeanor; it was also a pride for them to be employed with Air India.

Indian Airlines on the other hand had a rather poor upkeep. The aircraft on one particular flight I had from Colombo to Madras was dirty, and although I was not much of a flier, I decided not to travel by this airline again. I did break my promise though, out of necessity, and found that some flights were okay, particularly if they originated in Bombay or Delhi.

One Indian Airlines official who came and stayed with me in Dubai, where I was posted as a Foreign Correspondent, said that he was surprised to observe the excellence in foreign aircraft, notably in Emirates, in terms of upkeep, time schedule and airport service. I smiled to express agreement.

Those were the days. Despite an occasional agitation by airline employees and pilots, it was a privilege to travel by air and enjoy the courteous service by young pretty ladies and smiling gentlemen.

Then of course things changed.

Air hostesses turned sloppy, and even if they carried more than desired weight and on the verge being mothers in law or grandmothers, job security for them meant the continuation of flying allowance and to be on board an aircraft. That effectively denied the chance for the younger generation to do what they deserved.

Lately, many new private airlines have come up. Jet led the way, setting up a good service, and young and experienced pilots vied with one another to join it. Why they went on strike recently, isn’t much understood, and the public has universally condemned it.

India needs an efficient network or aircraft, also neat, clean and pleasant. A strike for no reason cannot be supported. Airline pilots should regard themselves in higher esteem, like the distinguished pilots of the Indian Air Force.