AI, AI Express hired more than 3,900 people this year: Campbell Wilson

Air India chairman Campbell Wilson said on Friday that the airline and Air India Express have employed more than 3,900 people, including more than 500 pilots and 2,400 cabin crew, since the start of this year.

Air India, under the watchful eye of the Tata Group, is revamping its airline portfolio and hiring more people as it expands its fleet and operations.

Wilson said in a letter to Air India staff on Friday.

He also said that the teams have done a great job of increasing recruiting and training capabilities, traveling the country and grooming new Indians.

Air India (AI) has about 11,000 employees and Air India Express (AIX) has about 1,900 people, including third-party employees.

Wilson is the CEO and Managing Director of Air India.

The airline has embarked on a five-year transformation process under which it seeks to expand routes and flights and increase its market share in the domestic and international segments.

It also placed firm orders for 470 aircraft, including narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, with Boeing and Airbus.

Last month, the airline said it employs more than 1,000 pilots and more than 500 aircraft will join its fleet in the coming years.

“We offer multiple opportunities and accelerated growth across our fleet of A320, B777, B787 and B737 aircraft to captains and first officers, as well as instructors,” the company said.

Two low-cost airlines – Air India Express and AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) – as well as full-service airlines – Air India and Vistara – are being merged.

Vistara is a joint venture between Air India and Singapore Airlines. Tata Group took control of Air India and Air India Express in January last year.