- Sunday, November 24, 2024
Air India’s Indian Commercial Pilots Association and the Indian Pilots Guild have written to Tata Group leadership seeking an early solution to the ongoing problem.
By: Shubham Ghosh
TWO labour unions of India’s Air India have thrown their weight behind the protesting pilots of Vistara, who have raised serious concerns over issues such as revision of salary. They have even alleged that the pilots were being treated as “bonded labourers” and that the human resources department issued them severe threats.
Vistara, an airline owned by India’s Tata, has had to cancel numerous flights due to crew shortages. Their pilots have also been actively protesting against the airline’s plans for merger with Air India, besides pay and rostering.
Air India’s Indian Commercial Pilots Association and the Indian Pilots Guild wrote to Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran on Thursday (4) over issues related to reduction in minimum guaranteed flying allowance to 40 hours, leave approval and rostering, India Today reported. They also sought a dialogue with the Tata Group to settle the matter.
Read: Vistara to lower flights amid pilots’ protest
The two unions highlighted that the challenges encountered by the pilots of Vistara are not unique but indicative of systemic issues within Tata Group’s aviation ventures. The Tata Group encompasses four airline enterprises: Air India, Air India Express, AIX Connect (previously AirAsia India), and Vistara.
“We believe that every pilot deserves to be valued, respected, and provided with the necessary support to excel in their profession. Pilots are being subjected to conditions and treatment reminiscent of bonded labourers,” the letter said, according to the report.
Read: Why Tata-owned Vistara facing frequent flight disruptions
The unions also alleged that “there have been instances where the HR has resorted to threatening pilots with potential disruptions to their future, accompanied by severe consequences”.
According to them, such threats could lead to severe consequences for the airlines’ operational safety and efficiency.
They asserted that “such threats” can have serious consequences for the safety and efficiency of airlines’ operations.
“Pilots who feel threatened or intimidated may be reluctant to report safety concerns or speak up about issues that could impact flight operations. This poses a significant risk to the safety of our passengers and crew members and should not be taken lightly,” the unions said.
Stressing the importance of treating pilots with respect and dignity, the unions expressed dismay at witnessing instances of alleged exploitation, overwork, and infringement upon basic rights across Tata Group airlines.
They also urged the Tata Group leadership to initiate constructive dialogue with the pilot community, listen to their feedback, and take proactive steps to address their valid concerns.
