1. At least 78 Air India Express flights were cancelled due to sudden sick reports from senior crew.
2. Crew members are allegedly dissatisfied with salary restructuring, particularly the performance-linked incentive component.
3. Sources suggest crew members aimed to avoid airport chaos, prompting the unexpected sick reports.
New Delhi, May 08: Numerous Air India Express flights, both international and domestic, were abruptly cancelled, totaling at least 78, as senior crew members reported sick without prior notice.
Sources indicate discontent among the crew regarding the restructuring of salary components, particularly the performance-linked incentive.
Allegedly, crew members aimed to prevent airport chaos by calling in sick. Despite attempts to communicate with the protesting staff, no resolution has been reached.
An Air India Express spokesperson addressed the situation, attributing flight delays and cancellations to last-minute sick reports.
They assured ongoing efforts to understand the reasons behind the staff’s actions and mitigate guest inconvenience. Passengers affected by cancellations will receive full refunds or rescheduling options.
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The airline advised passengers to verify the status of their flights before heading to the airport.
Previously owned by the Tata Group, Air India Express faced scrutiny from the Union Labour Ministry in December 2023 due to alleged violations concerning disputes between management and cabin crew.
The ministry’s show cause notice stemmed from cabin crew concerns, including issues with layover accommodations.
This notice followed grievances raised by the Air India Express Employees Union (AIXEU) to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, encompassing various issues, such as service contract curtailment.
