In 1994, Air India made aviation history by hosting the world’s first in-flight wedding, a remarkable event that took place aboard an A310 flight traveling from Mumbai to Ahmedabad. This unprecedented ceremony, dubbed Hawai Bandhan, was a dream come true for Dilip Popley, heir to the Popley & Sons jewelry empire. He and his bride tied the knot mid-flight, surrounded by family and friends, with the wedding conducted by a priest.
The logistics of this extraordinary event were carefully orchestrated, requiring approval from the Director General of Civil Aviation and other regulatory bodies. Air India, the national carrier at the time, transformed the aircraft into a wedding venue, complete with floral decorations from the airport check-in counters to the cabin. The wedding ceremony included traditional Indian rituals, such as the exchange of garlands and hymns recited by the priest. Notably, the Saat Phere (seven vows) were omitted due to safety regulations, but the celebration continued with music, food, and joy.
The guests aboard the flight were treated to a specially crafted menu by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, served on Royal Doulton crockery, while a lavish wedding cake designed by Kapoor added an extra touch of elegance. Air India also presented the newlyweds with a honeymoon trip to Switzerland, completing the unforgettable experience. Special boarding passes were issued to guests, marking the occasion as a historic moment in aviation.
The Hawai Bandhan wedding became a family tradition. In November 2023, Dilip Popley’s daughter continued the legacy, hosting her own in-flight wedding with 350 guests, this time aboard a flight from Dubai to Oman. The Popley family’s dedication to this unique form of celebration has made the in-flight wedding a cherished part of their heritage.
This groundbreaking event not only captured the imagination of millions but also set a new standard for destination weddings, blending Indian cultural traditions with the wonders of air travel. Air India’s Hawai Bandhan remains a landmark in both Indian culture and the aviation industry.