It is no exaggeration to suggest that Air India is much more than an airline. In fact as an airline it is hardly world class any more. But as a representation of what can go badly wrong in an India where there is so much potential and room for economic and social expansion, there is no better case study than the flag carrier. It has taken a pilots’ strike to bring matters to a head and, today, the airline is at a crossroad. Finally there is a glimmer of hope that progress will be made. But it will not be without some pain. Major surgery is required.