Majority of pilots have accepted new compensation package: Air India
Air India chief Campbell Wilson said on Friday that the majority of pilots have agreed to the new compensation package offered last week, amid protests by Air India’s pilots’ unions against the salary structure and revised terms of service.
The loss-making airline, which was taken over from the government in January 2022 by the Tata Group, has announced a new compensation package for its pilots and cabin crew.
In his weekly message to Air India employees on Friday, Campbell said the airline is making investments in workplace technology and training as well as in new and improved employee benefits.
“On the last front, I am pleased to report that 90 percent of the cabin crew and the majority of the pilots have received and accepted the new compensation package offered last week, which will go back to April 1, 2023,” he said.
On 17 April, Air India introduced a revamped compensation structure for pilots and cabin crew, which has since been rejected by both pilots’ unions – Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA) and Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG) – on grounds. that the airline, in alleged violation of labor practices, did not consult them before completing new contracts.
The two unions also urged their members not to sign/accept the amended contract and salary structure.
Air India has more than 1,800 pilots.
The airline has embarked on a five-year transformation process in which it seeks to expand its routes and flights and increase market share in both the domestic and international segments and has placed a firm order for 470 aircraft.
Besides, technology systems and people hiring are being modernized.
Air India 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,” it said in Thursday’s announcement.
As part of consolidating its aviation business, the Tata Group is integrating Air India Express and AIX Connect, as well as Vistara with Air India. Vistara is a joint venture between Air India and Singapore Airlines.
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