Air India Express Cancels 80+ Flights Amid Mass Sick Leave by Crew, Linked to Discontent Over Privatization
Air India Express has canceled over 80 flights after a significant number of cabin crew members called in sick, reportedly in protest against new hiring and promotion policies following the airline's privatization under Tata Group. The disruptions began on Tuesday and escalated by Thursday with nearly 300 staff members reportedly absent. The airline has taken disciplinary action against certain employees but did not provide further details.
This unrest is part of a broader dissatisfaction among staff following the privatization of Air India in 2021, with employees citing unequal treatment and changes to their compensation packages. Tata Group's attempt to turn around Air India and Air India Express has faced challenges, including similar issues with pilots at Vistara, a carrier co-owned by Tata.