Covid-19: Pilots stare at uncertain future

NEW DELHI: Pilots of commercial airlines are faced with an uncertain future as airlines have resorted to salary cuts and reduced allowances to lower costs at a time when a large portion of their fleet remains idle.

Indian airlines, especially private carriers, have also sent a large number of their pilots on leave without pay, as they operate at just 20-30% of their total capacity given flight operations are capped at 33% and as few are willing to travel because of the threat of covid-19 pandemic.

Wadia Group-controlled GoAir has sent a large number of its pilots on leave without pay during the last couple of months, said a pilot with the airline, adding that the company has also restructured the fixed salaries of its pilots.