Aviation staff fear the worst amid new surge

Fight crew, ground staff and other employees of airlines are staring at an uncertain future as the second covid wave has led to a steep decline in passenger demand, leading to some airlines opting for salary cuts and other measures to tide over the crisis.

Airlines resorted to salary cuts (including reduction in flying allowances), compulsory leave without pay and even job cuts during the nationwide lockdown in March and April last year.

With a sharp rise in infections, several staff expect the companies to initiate further cost-cutting steps, including reduction of manpower, to survive the crisis.