Air India pilots warn of ‘industrial action’ if payment issues aren’t resolved
A total of about 900 Air India pilots, representing their two unions – the Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG) and the Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPA) – have warned of “industrial action” if payment-related issues are not resolved soon.
The protesting pilots are complaining over what they are calling an “illegal pay-cut” of 55%.
In a letter to the management, the pilots have demanded payment as per market standards, while the airline awaits handover to the Tata Group, its new owner.
The Air India pilots listed a number of demands, including the release of 25% arrears along with interest, a statement of gratuity, an option of leave encashment, medical benefits for permanent employees, tax-related implications of withheld layover substance allowance, and the release of pending grades to first officers.
